Passengers apparent weight on elevator when it's acceleration is negative

In summary, the conversation discusses a 75 kg passenger in an elevator and their apparent weight under different acceleration conditions. The equations w=mg, apparent weight=w*(1+a/g), and apparent weight=w*(1-a/g) are used to calculate the apparent weight. The correct solution for part a is 735N. For parts b and c, the apparent weight is compared to a certain value.
  • #1
korinnewade
2
0

Homework Statement


There's a 75 kg passenger in an elevator
a. what is the passenger's apparent weight when acceleration is zero?
b. what is the passengers apparent weight when acceleration is positive?
c. what is the passengers apparent weight when acceleration is negative?


Homework Equations


w=mg
apparent weight=w*(1 + a/g)
apparent weight =w*(1 -a/g)


The Attempt at a Solution



a. w=75kg*9.8m/s=735N

b. apparent weight=735*(1 + a/g)

a=F/m I'm not sure how to find F here?

c.

 
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  • #2
His WEIGHT is 75 kg so that's including gravity ;)
 
  • #3
Part a is correct. You have the correct equations for parts b and c, (although by using w=mg, the equation is simplified). The problem, as written, is not looking for a numerical solution to parts b and c. For parts b and c, is the apparent weight greter than, less than , or equal to, a certain value?
 

Related to Passengers apparent weight on elevator when it's acceleration is negative

1. What is apparent weight in an elevator?

Apparent weight in an elevator refers to the perceived weight of an individual when they are inside an elevator that is in motion. It takes into account the force of gravity and the acceleration of the elevator, which can impact the weight felt by the individual.

2. Why does apparent weight change in an elevator?

Apparent weight changes in an elevator because of the acceleration of the elevator. When the elevator accelerates, there is a change in the forces acting on the individual, which can result in a change in their perceived weight.

3. How does negative acceleration affect apparent weight in an elevator?

Negative acceleration, also known as deceleration, can cause a decrease in apparent weight in an elevator. This is because the elevator is slowing down, causing the forces acting on the individual to decrease and resulting in a decrease in their perceived weight.

4. Does the mass of the elevator affect the apparent weight of passengers?

Yes, the mass of the elevator can affect the apparent weight of passengers. This is because the mass of the elevator impacts the amount of force needed to accelerate or decelerate it, which can also affect the forces acting on the individual and their perceived weight.

5. How can apparent weight be calculated in an elevator?

To calculate apparent weight in an elevator, you need to know the mass of the individual, the acceleration of the elevator, and the force of gravity (9.8 m/s²). Then, you can use the formula Apparent Weight = Mass x (Acceleration + Gravity) to determine the perceived weight of the individual in the elevator.

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