# A spring is stretched beyond its limit of proportionality. Explain what this means for the relationship between the load applied and the extension of the spring, and state what happens to the spring when the load is removed.

> Cambridge International IGCSE Physics (0625) — 1.5 Forces · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Beyond the limit of proportionality, extension is no longer directly proportional to the load applied
2. The spring constant no longer applies / the load–extension graph is no longer a straight line through the origin
3. The spring does not return to its original shape/length when the load is removed
4. The spring is no longer behaving as an elastic solid / the deformation is permanent (inelastic)

## Key terms

- [limit of proportionality](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/limit-of-proportionality)
- [extension](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/extension)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Cambridge International IGCSE Physics (0625)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/a-spring-is-stretched-beyond-its-135b12f0) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.