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Two springs of force constants k₁ and k₂ are connected in series and stretched by an external load. The effective spring constant of the combination is
Ak₁+k₂ (typical)
Bk₁k₂/(k₁+k₂)
C(k₁+k₂)/2
D√(k₁k₂)
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: B. k₁k₂/(k₁+k₂)
1. In series, the same force acts through both springs while extensions add.
2. Total extension x = F/k₁ + F/k₂ = F(k₁+k₂)/(k₁k₂).
3. So the effective spring constant k_eff = F/x = k₁k₂/(k₁+k₂).
_Source: Maharashtra Balbharati Std XII Physics, Ch 5 "Oscillations" §5.5_
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