The spring constant k is inversely proportional to the length of the spring (k∝L1).
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Cutting the Spring:
Let the original length be L and the original spring constant be k.
The spring is cut in the ratio 1:2:3. The lengths of the segments are:
L1=61L,L2=62L=3L,L3=63L=2L
Since kL=constant, the spring constants of the segments are:
k1=6k,k2=3k,k3=2k
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Series Connection (k′):
When connected in series, the reciprocal of the equivalent spring constant is the sum of the reciprocals of individual constants:
k′1=k11+k21+k31
k′1=6k1+3k1+2k1=6k1+2+3=6k6=k1
k′=k
(Note: Connecting parts back in series restores the original spring).
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Parallel Connection (k′′):
When connected in parallel, the equivalent spring constant is the sum of individual constants:
k′′=k1+k2+k3
k′′=6k+3k+2k=11k
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Ratio:
k′′k′=11kk=111
Thus, the ratio is 1:11.