Min weight of elevator accelerating, constant velocity, decelerating

In summary, Liz, who weighs 8kg, is inside an elevator that accelerates uniformly between the 1st and 2nd floors and decelerates between the 5th and 6th floors. The elevator covers 6 meters in 1 second between the 2nd and 5th floors. Liz's scale reads 800N when the elevator is not moving. The minimum scale reading during the elevator ride can be calculated using the equations N + Ma = Mg and N - Ma = Mg.
  • #1
judas_priest
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Homework Statement



Starting from rest, an elevator accelerates uniformly between the 1st and 2nd floors, and decelerates uniformly between the 5th and 6th floors, coming to a stop at the 6th floor. Between the 2nd and 5th floors, the elevator covers the 6 meter distance between each two adjacent floors in 1 second. Inside, Liz (who is about to graduate) is standing on a scale that reads 800 N when the elevator isn't moving. What was her minimum scale reading during the trip? Use g = 10 m/s^2.

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



From 1st floor to second floor the equation would be [tex] N + Ma = Mg. [/tex]
From second floor to fifth, it moves with constant velocity i.e 6 m/s
From fifth to sixth, the equation would be [tex] N - Ma= Mg. [/tex]

Here, from the given data in question M = 8kgs.
How do I find the minimum reading?
 
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  • #2
Never mind. Was making a silly mistake. Got it.
 

Related to Min weight of elevator accelerating, constant velocity, decelerating

1. What is the minimum weight of an elevator when it is accelerating?

The minimum weight of an elevator when it is accelerating is determined by the force of the elevator's acceleration and the mass of the elevator itself. This can be calculated using the equation F = ma, where F is the force, m is the mass, and a is the acceleration. The minimum weight can vary depending on the specific elevator and its acceleration rate.

2. How does the weight of an elevator change when it is at a constant velocity?

When an elevator is at a constant velocity, its weight remains the same as it was before acceleration. This is because at a constant velocity, there is no change in the elevator's motion, so no additional force is required to maintain the velocity.

3. What is the impact of the weight of an elevator on its acceleration?

The weight of an elevator directly affects its acceleration. The greater the weight of the elevator, the more force is required to accelerate it. This is because a heavier elevator has a larger mass, which requires a greater force to move at a certain acceleration rate.

4. How does the weight of an elevator affect its deceleration?

The weight of an elevator also affects its deceleration. A heavier elevator will require more force to slow down and come to a stop compared to a lighter elevator. This is because the mass of the elevator must be overcome by a force in the opposite direction of its motion to decelerate.

5. What factors can influence the minimum weight of an elevator during deceleration?

The minimum weight of an elevator during deceleration can be influenced by various factors such as the speed of the elevator, the friction in the hoist mechanism, and the deceleration rate. These factors can affect the amount of force needed to slow down the elevator and come to a stop, thus impacting the minimum weight required for safe deceleration.

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