In an experiment the values of two spring constants were measured as k1=(10±0.2),N/m and k2=(20±0.3),N/m. If these springs are connected in parallel, then the percentage error in equivalent spring constant is :
Answer: B
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When two springs are connected in parallel, both experience the same extension.
Therefore,
F1=k1x,F2=k2x.
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The total restoring force is the sum of the individual forces:
F=F1+F2.
Hence,
keqx=k1x+k2x,
giving
keq=k1+k2.
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Substituting the given values:
keq=10+20=30 N/m.
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For the sum of measured quantities, the absolute errors are added:
Δkeq=Δk1+Δk2=0.2+0.30.5 N/m.
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The percentage error is:
keqΔkeq×100=300.5×1001.666…
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Rounding to two decimal places:
1.666…
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Therefore, the equivalent spring constant is
(30±0.5),N/m,
which corresponds to a percentage error of
=1.67%.
Hence, the correct answer is Option B.