Solving Elevator Question: 50kg = 300N

  • Thread starter Thread starter gr3g1
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Elevator
Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving a man weighing 50 kg and a scale in an elevator indicating a weight of 300 N. The subject area includes concepts of weight, mass, and acceleration, particularly in the context of varying gravitational effects in different environments.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore what a scale measures and how it relates to weight and mass. Questions are raised about the implications of the scale reading in different scenarios, such as on the moon. There are attempts to calculate acceleration based on the given weight and mass, while some participants emphasize the importance of understanding the concepts rather than just seeking answers.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with various interpretations being explored. Some participants have provided calculations and insights into the relationship between weight and acceleration, while others encourage a deeper understanding of the underlying principles. There is no explicit consensus, but guidance has been offered regarding the importance of comprehension over mere answers.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating assumptions about weight measurement in different gravitational contexts and the implications of the scale reading in a moving elevator. The original poster indicates that this question was part of a test, which may influence the urgency of the discussion.

gr3g1
Messages
71
Reaction score
0
If a man weights 50kg, but a scale in the elevator says he is 300N, what can you say about the acceleration?

Thanks a lot
 
Physics news on Phys.org
What does a scale measure? What is it measuring in this question? What would a scale tell you on the moon?
 
The scale is weighing how heavy he is in Newtons
 
More correctly, he has a mass of 50kg. Weight is in Newtons. What is his weight in Newtons?
 
If the man is 50kg, what would be his weight (W = mg) if the elevator is not moving, for example? Now compare this with what the scale is reading, and apply your experience by remembering what you felt the last time you were on an elevator.

Zz.
 
w = ma
300 = 50(a)

a = 6 m/s^2?
 
Acceleration is a vector...
 
6ms^2 upwards?
 
It almost seems you are just looking for answers. Figure out the answer.
 
  • #10
I am, because it was a question on my test!
 
  • #11
It doesn't help to know an answer without understanding it. All the information is in this thread. Read through it again and try to understand.
 
  • #12
gr3g1 said:
w = ma
300 = 50(a)

a = 6 m/s^2?

Where did you get that value of a?
 

Similar threads

Elevator Question: Calculating displacement from weighing scale readings
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Calculate elevator acceleration using mass
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
5K
Climbing a ladder in an elevator
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
Find the power needed to accelerate this elevator downward
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Stacked blocks on an accelerating elevator
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
8K
Mechanics: Elevator Accelerating Downward
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
4K
Questioning the Solution for Elevator vs Rock Problem
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
Elevator falling and bouncing back from a spring
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Solving Elevator Problem Homework Statement
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
Power To Accelerate 1000kg Elevator Cab Upward
  • · Replies 31 ·
2
Replies
31
Views
4K