What is the Apparent Weight of a Passenger in Free Fall?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the concept of apparent weight experienced by a passenger in free fall. A 75 kg passenger, when launched upward by a rubber band, experiences a true weight of 735 N, calculated using the formula w=mg (where g=9.8 m/s²). However, during free fall, the apparent weight becomes zero, as the normal force acting on the passenger is negated by the acceleration due to gravity, leading to a sensation of weightlessness. This conclusion is confirmed by the equation for apparent weight, which results in w apparent = 0 N when the acceleration is equal to -g.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Familiarity with the concepts of weight and apparent weight
  • Basic knowledge of gravitational acceleration (g=9.8 m/s²)
  • Ability to apply equations of motion in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of free fall and gravitational forces
  • Explore the concept of normal force in different scenarios
  • Learn about the effects of acceleration on apparent weight
  • Investigate real-world applications of weightlessness, such as in space travel
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding the effects of gravity and motion on weight perception.

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Homework Statement


A box with a 75 kg passenger inside is launched straight up into the air by a Giant rubberband. After the box has left the rubberband but is still moving upward,

A) what is the passenger's true weight? This was fine it was just w=mg which is 75 * 9.8=735 N

B) what is the passenger's APPARENT weight? I'm thinking the object is in free fall so since the apparent weight equation comes from the magnitude of the contact force (the normal force from the box, which is equal to w + a) that supports the guy then wapparent=w + ay=mg + may=m(g + ay). Since ay=-g for free fall then w apparent = 9.8-9.8=0! So he would feel "weightless"?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
Physics news on Phys.org
Your approach is correct. He would feel weightless.
 
graphene said:
Your approach is correct. He would feel weightless.

Great! Thanks!
 

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