Calculate the spring constant for a linear spring given the force necessary to stretch it a certain displacement.

Example question:

It requires a force of 530 N to stretch a certain linear spring 0.28 m. What is the constant for this spring?

Given:

force: F = 530 N

displacement: x = 0.28 m

Starting formula

Algebra: divide both sides by x

Algebra: x's cancel on right

Algebra: switch left and right

Plug in numbers with units

Divide: 530/0.28 = 1892.857....

Final result with significant figures and unit