Scales- Weight on a scale in an elevator (True/False) Quick

In summary, the figures depict situations where a person is standing on a scale in eight identical elevators, each with a weight of 600 N when stationary. When the elevator is moving, it moves upwards and the weight on the scale varies depending on the acceleration. The mass of the person remains the same in all situations. The normal force is zero when the elevator accelerates downwards at the same rate as gravity, resulting in a weightless feeling. The net force on the person is zero when the elevator is moving at a constant speed.
  • #1
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Homework Statement



The figures depict situations where a person is standing on a scale in eight identical elevators. Each person weighs 600 N when the elevators are stationary. Each elevator now moves (accelerates) according to the specified arrow that is drawn next to it. In all cases where the elevator is moving, it is moving upward.

1sjswz.jpg


Which of the following statements are true about the situations depicted in the figures above?

The mass of the person is different in pictures B and H
The weight the scales read is the same in pictures A, B, C and H
The normal force provided by the scale is zero in pictures G and H
The net force on the person is zero in pictures D, E and G
The scales read zero weight in pictures C, D and F

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



1. False, mass stays the same. It says each person ways 600N when the elevator is stationary.
2. False, different accelerations read different weights
3. False, wouldn't there be one?
4. True, force on person is zero, force on scale is something else.
5. False, acceleration of gravity is thereWhere am I going wrong?
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
due in 20 minutess! help
 
  • #3
I'm perhaps not the best person to reply to this, because my knowledge about elevators is very limited. But just using logic:

When you accelerate down in an elevator, don't you feel lighter? For #3 - since you accelerate down with a=g, and gravity is still there, won't they sort of cancel out? So you'll feel weightless and if you feel weightless there shouldn't be a normal force.
 

What is a scale and how does it work?

A scale is a device used to measure the weight or mass of an object. It works by using a spring, balance, or other mechanism to determine the force exerted by an object due to gravity.

Can a scale accurately measure weight in an elevator?

No, a scale cannot accurately measure weight in an elevator because the elevator is constantly moving and changing direction, causing the reading on the scale to fluctuate.

Is the weight shown on a scale in an elevator true or false?

The weight shown on a scale in an elevator is not necessarily true or false. It is a measurement affected by the constant movement and acceleration of the elevator.

Does the speed of the elevator affect the weight shown on a scale?

Yes, the speed of the elevator can affect the weight shown on a scale. As the elevator accelerates or decelerates, the force exerted on the scale changes, resulting in a different weight measurement.

Why is it important to consider the movement of an elevator when using a scale?

It is important to consider the movement of an elevator when using a scale because it can affect the accuracy and consistency of the weight measurement. The constant changes in direction and speed can result in varying readings on the scale.

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