Question

Two identical blocks oscillate on different horizontal springs. Which spring has the larger spring constant?

Answer 1

Answer:

(See explanation)

Explanation:

The spring with larger spring constant is those which exhibits a larger natural frequency.

$\omega = \sqrt{\frac{k}{m} }$

Answer 2

Answer: The spring that is oscilating faster (has bigger frequency)

Explanation:

We know that the frequency of oscilation of a spring is:

w = √(k/m)

Where k is the spring constant and m is the mass of the blocks, then if both blocks are identical, also their mases.

This means that if we see that one of the springs oscilates faster ( the frequency is larger) this should mean that the spring constant is larger.