The discussion centers on the forces acting on a bag hanging from a spring scale in a stationary elevator. The primary force giving the scale reading is the normal force (Fn) exerted by the scale on the bag, which balances the gravitational force (mg) acting downward. Since the elevator is at rest, these two forces are equal in magnitude, resulting in a net force of zero. Thus, the scale accurately reflects the weight of the bag through the normal force.
PREREQUISITESStudents of physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of forces and equilibrium in static systems.
Antineutron said:Read carefully, the elevator is at rest. Does that mean is there are other forces involved on the bag besides gravity?