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/s²upward.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The normal force (scale reading) is 400 N. The gravitational force is 60.0 kg * 9.8 m/s² = 588 N. The net force is 400 N - 588 N = -188 N, indicating downward acceleration. Using F = ma, -188 N = 60.0 kg * a, gives a ≈ 3.13 m/s² downward.

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