Very quick question about lift and apparent weight?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the concepts of lift dynamics and apparent weight, specifically addressing how acceleration affects perceived weight. When a lift accelerates downwards at a rate greater than 9.8 m/s², the apparent weight becomes negative, leading to a sensation of free fall. The conversation emphasizes the importance of Newton's second law and free body diagrams in understanding these phenomena. Participants clarify that apparent weight is influenced by the normal reaction force and gravitational effects on the body.

PREREQUISITES
  • Newton's Second Law of Motion
  • Free Body Diagrams
  • Concept of Apparent Weight
  • Basic Understanding of Gravity
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the effects of acceleration on apparent weight in different scenarios
  • Learn about free body diagram construction and analysis
  • Explore the implications of gravitational acceleration in various environments
  • Investigate the physics of elevators and their safety mechanisms
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, engineers, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of motion and forces in everyday scenarios, particularly in relation to elevators and apparent weight.

sameeralord
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Hello everyone,

When you go down a lift, are you actually falling down. Is the lift carrying you down, or are you falling down due to gravity towards the lift, if the lift goes too fast would your head crash? Sorry if my thinking is completely wrong.

Ok now apparent weight is from the normal reaction force. Muscles pump blood up via veins and then they fall due to gravity and other factors. So when they fall and hit the interior of the foot, can't you feel it. So isn't apparent not just the normal reaction force.

Thank you :smile:
 
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To work it out draw a free body force diagram for someone standing on scales and then apply Newtons second law.If the lift is stationary or moving with a steady velocity apparent weight = true weight.If it accelerates upwards apparent weight is bigger and if it accelerates downwards apparent weight is smaller.What do you think might happen if the lift accelerated down at more than 9.8m/s^2?
 

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