How Does Elevator Acceleration Affect Scale Readings in Newtons?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the impact of elevator acceleration on scale readings for a 165-lb person. When the elevator accelerates upward at 2.0 m/s², the scale reads 884 Newtons. Conversely, when the elevator accelerates downward at the same rate, the scale reads 584 Newtons. The calculations involve understanding the net acceleration and the normal force acting on the person standing on the scale.

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NewJersey
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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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