Stationary elevator homework problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the apparent weight of Allison standing on a scale in a stationary elevator while moving upwards at an acceleration of 8 m/s². The key concept involves applying Newton's Second Law, where the net force acting on Allison is influenced by the increased effective gravitational force. The effective gravity is calculated as 17.8 m/s², leading to the conclusion that her apparent weight equals her mass multiplied by this new gravitational force.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's Second Law
  • Basic knowledge of forces and weight
  • Familiarity with the concept of apparent weight
  • Ability to perform calculations involving acceleration and gravity
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  • Study the implications of acceleration on weight in different contexts
  • Learn about the effects of varying gravitational forces in physics problems
  • Explore practical applications of Newton's laws in real-world scenarios
  • Review examples of apparent weight calculations in non-inertial reference frames
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I'm doing this Physics worksheet and I don't know how to do this problem...
Allison is standing on a scale that is in a stationary elevator. what is the apparent weight when she is moving up at 8 m/s squared?

If anyone can help that would be great.. And if you could explain the steps you used to get it.

Thanks
 
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The scale reads the force that pushes up on the girl. Draw a diagram showing the forces on the girl (there are two). The net force on the girl is related to her acceleration by Newton's 2nd law. (Hint: you can express the girl's apparent weight in terms of her actual weight.)
 
Just think of the acceleration upwards as more gravity.

The "gravity" has increased from 9.8 to 17.8 m/s^2.

Therefore her apparent weight is just her mass times the new "gravity".
 

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