A 60.0-kg person rides in an elevator while standing on a scale.The scale reads 400 N.The acceleration of the elevator is closest to A)3.13 m/s² downward. B)6.67 m/s² downward. C)zero. D)9.80 m/s² downward. E)6.67 m/s² upward.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The scale reading (400 N) is less than the person's weight (60.0 kg * 9.8 m/s^2 = 588 N), indicating the elevator is accelerating downward. To find the acceleration, use $F_{net} = ma$, where $F_{net}$ is the difference between the gravitational force and the scale reading. Thus, $588 N - 400 N = 60.0 kg * a$, solving for $a$ gives approximately $3.13 m/s^2$ downward.

A 600-Kg Person Rides in an Elevator While Standing on a a Scale.The