Tension elevator on a scale problem

In summary, a tension elevator on a scale problem involves calculating the tension force in a string or cable attached to an elevator. To solve this type of problem, a free body diagram must be drawn and Newton's second law can be used to determine the net force on the elevator. Common mistakes include forgetting to include the elevator's weight in the diagram and using the incorrect sign for the tension force. The mass of the elevator does not directly affect the tension force, but it does impact the weight that the tension force must balance. A negative tension force does not make physical sense in this type of problem and likely indicates an error in the equations.
  • #1
freepancakes
5
0
a 71 kg man is standing in an elevator on a scale. the elevator is traveling up with an acceleration of 3 m/s^2. what does the scale read the weight of the man as?

thanks guys!
 
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  • #2
would you use F=ma and then find the diffrence and get a "new" acceleration for gravity which would be greater?
 
  • #3
freepancakes said:
would you use F=ma and then find the diffrence and get a "new" acceleration for gravity which would be greater?

Basically yes.

F = m*a = m*(g + a)
 

1. What is a tension elevator on a scale problem?

A tension elevator on a scale problem is a physics problem that involves calculating the tension force in a string or cable that is attached to an elevator and supporting its weight. This type of problem typically requires knowledge of concepts such as Newton's laws of motion and free body diagrams.

2. How do you solve a tension elevator on a scale problem?

To solve a tension elevator on a scale problem, you first need to draw a free body diagram of the elevator and label all the forces acting on it. Then, you can use Newton's second law (F=ma) to calculate the net force on the elevator in the vertical direction. Finally, you can set this net force equal to the weight of the elevator and solve for the tension force in the string or cable.

3. What are some common mistakes when solving a tension elevator on a scale problem?

One common mistake is forgetting to include the weight of the elevator in the free body diagram. Another mistake is using the incorrect sign for the tension force. It's important to remember that the tension force will always be in the opposite direction of the weight of the elevator.

4. How does the mass of the elevator affect the tension force?

The mass of the elevator does not directly affect the tension force. However, it does affect the weight of the elevator, which is the force that the tension force must balance. So, a heavier elevator will result in a larger tension force in the string or cable.

5. Can you have a negative tension force in a tension elevator on a scale problem?

No, a negative tension force does not make physical sense in this type of problem. The tension force is always directed away from the object it is attached to, so it will always be a positive value. If you get a negative tension force in your calculation, it likely means you made a mistake in setting up your equations.

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