Apparent weight/elevator problem

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AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on a physics problem involving a bathroom scale reading in an elevator. The scale shows a weight of 760 N while the normal weight is 610 N, indicating the elevator is accelerating upward. The participant calculates the acceleration as 2.4 m/s² using Newton's second law. However, there is confusion regarding the interpretation of the elevator's velocity. The conclusion is that since the scale reading is higher than normal, the elevator is accelerating upwards, but the exact velocity cannot be determined without additional information.
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Homework Statement


As part of a physics experiment, you stand on a bathroom scale in an elevator. Though your normal weight is 610 N, the scale at the moment reads 760 N. Calculate the magnitude of the elevator's acceleration. What, if anything, can you say about the velocity of the elevator? Explain.


Homework Equations


Wa=m(g+a) maybe?


The Attempt at a Solution


760=62(12.2+a)
i know its not right and its driving me nuts -_- please help =(
 
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Do it step by step:
What forces act on you? What's the net force? What's your mass?
Apply Newton's 2nd law.
 
jeez -_- that was so easy LOL thank you so much for pointing me in the right direction...i have laryngitis so my mind isn't exactly functioning correctly =)
 
Doc Al said:
Do it step by step:
What forces act on you? What's the net force? What's your mass?
Apply Newton's 2nd law.

i figured out the acceleration...2.4 m/s^2 but i don't know how to answer this part...What, if anything, can you say about the velocity of the elevator? Explain.
 

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