Does an Elevator Affect Your Weight?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the physics of weight variation experienced by a student in an elevator. Initially, the student measures a weight of 840 N at rest. As the elevator ascends, the weight increases to 1050 N, indicating upward acceleration. When the elevator decelerates, the weight drops to 588 N, reflecting downward acceleration. The net force equations, F_net = ma, are crucial for calculating the acceleration during these phases.

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A student, standing on a scale in an elevator at rest, sees that his weight is 840 N. As the elevator rises, his weight increases to 1050 N, then returns to normal. When the elevator slows to a stop, his weight drops to 588 N. Determine the acceleration at the beginning and end of the trip.

How do you solve this?

Please help!
 
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tennisacerg said:
A student, standing on a scale in an elevator at rest, sees that his weight is 840 N. As the elevator rises, his weight increases to 1050 N, then returns to normal. When the elevator slows to a stop, his weight drops to 588 N. Determine the acceleration at the beginning and end of the trip.

How do you solve this?

Please help!
As the elevator rises or slows
F_{net} = ma where F_{net} consists of his weight acting down, and the normal force acting up. What is the person's weight? What is the normal force acting up on his feet? Solve for a in each case. Watch your plus and minus signs.
 

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