How Is the Elevator's Acceleration Calculated Using Newton's Second Law?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The acceleration of a 1000 kg elevator held by two cables exerting 6000 N each can be calculated using Newton's Second Law. The net force (FNET) acting on the elevator is determined by the equation FNET = (6000 N + 6000 N) - Fg, where Fg is the gravitational force. The gravitational force is calculated as Fg = mg, resulting in Fg = 1000 kg * 9.81 m/s² = 9810 N. The final calculation yields an acceleration of approximately 2.2 m/s².

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's Second Law (FNET = ma)
  • Knowledge of gravitational force calculation (Fg = mg)
  • Ability to construct and interpret force diagrams
  • Basic algebra for solving equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study advanced applications of Newton's Laws in different contexts
  • Learn about free body diagrams and their significance in physics
  • Explore the effects of varying mass and force on acceleration
  • Investigate real-world applications of elevator mechanics and safety systems
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on mechanics, as well as educators looking for practical examples of Newton's Second Law in action.

cheerspens
Messages
92
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



A 1000 kg elevator is held up by two cables. If each able exerts a force of 6000N upwards upon the elevator, find the elevator's acceleration.

Homework Equations



Fg=mg

FNET=ma

The Attempt at a Solution



I started with a force diagram to help me and then I think I'm supposed to use the FNET=ma formula. So I plugged in the variables as follows: (6000+6000)-Fge=1000a
How do you solve for acceleration in this problem when I also need to find the Force that gravity exerts on the elevator (Fge)?

Would the answer be 2.2m/s^2?
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
Fge would simply be the weight, mg, of the elevator.
 

Similar threads

Having a hard time learning Newton's 2nd law
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
Rocket acceleration problem: confused about Newton's 2nd Law
  • · Replies 42 ·
2
Replies
42
Views
6K
Rank forces according to magnitude: Newton's 2nd/3rd laws
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
7K
Newton's 2nd Law: Why is Resistance Considered a Positive Force?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Newton's law problem: Helicopter lifting a box with a rope
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
3K
Find the power needed to accelerate this elevator downward
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Calculating acceleration of a prism and block connected to a wall through a rope and pulley
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
1K
Newton's second law (My turtle named Newton being accelerated)
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
Monkey accelerating up and down a rope
  • · Replies 38 ·
2
Replies
38
Views
5K
Mechanics: Elevator Accelerating Downward
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
4K