When an elevator moves upwards with an acceleration

[Crusaderking1]

Homework Statement

When an elevator moves upwards with an acceleration, what is the equation for tension?

Is it T+W =ma?

When an elevator moves downwards with an acceleration, would the equation be

T+W=-ma?

Thats all. Thanks.

I really can't figure it out. All I know is that the equations T-mg=ma (for upwards) and T-mg=-ma (downwards) are wrong.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

 

[SammyS]

Draw a Free Body Diagram for each case. Use F_net=ma .

 

[Crusaderking1]

N = mg + ma if the elevator has an upward acceleration
N = mg - ma if the elevator has a downward acceleration

Would tension be the same as normal force in this situation?

 

[SammyS]

For this problem, what is the normal force being used for?

Draw a Free Body Diagram for each case. Use Fnet=ma .

 

[Crusaderking1]

For this problem, what is the normal force being used for?

Draw a Free Body Diagram for each case. Use Fnet=ma .

I got the problem right. Thanks for your help!