How Does Elevator Acceleration Affect Scale Readings in Newtons?

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In an elevator, the scale reading for a 165-lb person changes based on the elevator's acceleration. When accelerating upward at 2.0 m/s², the scale reads approximately 884 N, while it reads about 584 N when accelerating downward at the same rate. The calculations involve converting weight from pounds to Newtons and factoring in the net acceleration. The normal force, or scale reading, is influenced by the direction of acceleration relative to gravitational force. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for accurate scale readings in varying acceleration scenarios.
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A 165-lb person is standing on a scale in an elevator. What is the reading on the scale in Newtons if the elevator is ?

a) accerlating upward at 2.0m/s?
b) accerlating downward at 2.0m/s ?


a= 11.8 m/s *(165*0.454)= 884N

b= 7.8m/s *(165*.454)= 584N
 
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Your unit of accn is wrong. What have you done exactly to find the values you have given?

What is the normal reaction between the floor and the man? The only thing we know is that his net accn upward or downward. His weight is always acting downward.
 

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