Question

multiple choice 1 point
why is there a negative sign in the spring force equation?
because the spring force is exerted in the opposite direction of the springs displacement
because the spring force is exerted in the same direction as the springs displacement

Explanation:

Hooke's Law states that the force exerted by a spring ($F$) is given by $F = -kx$, where $k$ is the spring constant and $x$ is the displacement from the spring's equilibrium position. The negative sign indicates that the spring force is a restoring force. It acts in the opposite direction to the displacement of the spring. For example, if you stretch a spring (displacement $x$ in one direction), the spring force pulls back (opposite direction). If you compress a spring (displacement $x$ in the opposite direction), the spring force pushes back (again, opposite to the displacement direction).

Answer:

Because the spring force is exerted in the opposite direction of the spring’s displacement.