Solving Elevator Problem: Physics Student in Accelerating Elevator

[sheri1987]

Homework Statement

A physics student stands on a bathroom scale in an elevator which is not moving. The scale reads 564 N. The elevator then accelerates downward at 1.97 m/s2. What does the scale read during this acceleration?

Homework Equations

F=ma, W=mg

The Attempt at a Solution

I thought at first the answer should be 0 N, but that is wrong...then I tried using Newton's 2nd Law F = 564 N, a = 1.97, but when I plugged this in it was stilled wrong...what equation should I use?

 

[Hootenanny]

You are using the correct formulae, but are not looking at the whole situation. First, draw yourself a diagram; then consider what force would be required to make the student accelerate downwards at 1.97m/s^2. Finally, you need to figure out how you combine this force with the weight of the student.