Which force gives the scale reading?

In summary, the elevator is at rest with a hanging bag and the scale reading is determined by the downward force of the weight of the bag (mg) and the normal force exerted by the scale on the bag (Fn). The elevator at rest means that there are no other forces acting on the bag besides gravity and the normal force.
  • #1
MIA6
233
0
An elevator is at rest with a bag hanging from a spring scale. My question is Which force gives the scale reading? The mg (the weight of the bag) downward or the force exerted by the scale on the bag Fn gives the scale reading?
thanks.
 
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  • #2
Read carefully, the elevator is at rest. Does that mean is there are other forces involved on the bag besides gravity?
 
  • #3
Antineutron said:
Read carefully, the elevator is at rest. Does that mean is there are other forces involved on the bag besides gravity?

Since elevator is at rest, there is only gravity, and then I think there is a normal force reacting to the gravity.
 

1. What is the scale reading?

The scale reading is the numerical value displayed on a scale that indicates the weight or force acting on it.

2. What is a force?

A force is a push or pull that causes an object to accelerate or change its motion.

3. How does a scale measure force?

A scale measures force by using a spring or strain gauge that compresses or stretches in response to the weight placed on it. The amount of compression or stretch is then converted into a numerical value, which is the scale reading.

4. What is the unit of measurement for force on a scale?

The unit of measurement for force on a scale is typically Newtons (N) in the metric system, or pounds (lb) in the imperial system.

5. How does gravity affect the scale reading?

Gravity plays a major role in determining the scale reading, as it is the force acting on an object that gives it weight. The scale measures this weight, which is the force exerted by gravity on the object, and displays it as the scale reading.

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