Final answer:
Two springs in parallel result in a larger effective spring constant, indicating a stiffer system overall. The larger force constant implies that the system is more resistant to extension under equal force. Therefore, the correct answer is A. Larger.
Step-by-step explanation:
When two springs are connected in parallel, they result in a larger effective spring constant. When the same force is applied to parallel-connected springs, both springs will have equal extension, resulting in a combined force that is the sum of the individual forces provided by each spring.
In contrast to parallel spring systems, when we connect springs in series, the effective spring constant becomes smaller.
If we reference to the force constant k, it is related to the stiffness of the system: The larger the force constant, the stiffer the system. Thus, Spring A with a greater force constant than Spring B is stiffer, and when equal weights are suspended, Spring A will have less extension than Spring B.
Overall, two springs in parallel always result in a larger effective spring constant, contrary to one might think if they interpreted a larger spring constant as indicating a looser system. The term 'larger' refers to the increased force constant value, meaning a stiffer combined system, not the physical dimensions or stretch of the springs.