should not the k constant always be positive in this problemsince the direction

Question

should not the k constant always be positive in this problemsince the direction x is in the positive direction and the force isnegative according to figure 11.1...therefore being pulled...bydefinition f=-kx...thus in this problem f=-f and x=x -f=-kx the negatives cancel and f=kx k=f/x=360/0.04=+9000 and not -9000 and the oppsoite aplies as k always remains positive whetherin compression or tension? should not the k constant always be positive in this problemsince the direction x is in the positive direction and the force isnegative according to figure 11.1...therefore being pulled...bydefinition f=-kx...thus in this problem f=-f and x=x -f=-kx the negatives cancel and f=kx k=f/x=360/0.04=+9000 and not -9000 and the oppsoite aplies as k always remains positive whetherin compression or tension?

Explanation / Answer

1. Yes, since k is a coefficient it must be positive. 2. Since force is a vector and to be compared to another apposingforce then one of them will be negative.

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