What Does the Scale Read When the Elevator Moves Downward?

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When Harold stands on a scale in a downward-moving elevator at a constant speed of 0.050 m/s, the scale reading remains unchanged because there is no acceleration acting on him. The weight of Harold, calculated as W = mg (where m is his mass of 72.2 kg and g is 9.8 m/s²), equals 708 N. Since the elevator's velocity is constant, the normal force exerted by the scale equals Harold's weight. The discussion highlights the importance of recognizing that constant velocity implies zero acceleration, which affects the scale reading. Thus, the scale will read 708 N while the elevator descends.
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Homework Statement



Harold has a mass of 72.2 kg, and is standing on a scale in an elevator cab. What will the scale read if the elevator is moving downwards at a constant 0.050 m/s?

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



Since the scale has a normal force upward and Harold has an identical normal force downward (assuming this is correct). Well that means that the only thing affecting the scales weight is the mass * acceleration correct?

A free body diagram showed ma downward and I'm not sure if I was suppose to draw anything else (I drew the normal force but wasn't sure if it was equal to anything)

In a separate attempt the weight = mg

so W = 72.2 * 9.8 = 708N

*EDIT = I didn't realize that the acceleration is 0 since velocity is constant until now
 
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Nirupt said:

Homework Statement



Harold has a mass of 72.2 kg, and is standing on a scale in an elevator cab. What will the scale read if the elevator is moving downwards at a constant 0.050 m/s?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



Since the scale has a normal force upward and Harold has an identical normal force downward (assuming this is correct). Well that means that the only thing affecting the scales weight is the mass * acceleration correct?

A free body diagram showed ma downward and I'm not sure if I was suppose to draw anything else (I drew the normal force but wasn't sure if it was equal to anything)

In a separate attempt the weight = mg

so W = 72.2 * 9.8 = 708N


*EDIT = I didn't realize that the acceleration is 0 since velocity is constant until now
Does this mean you have found your answer?
 

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