A box is on a scale.In which of these situations will the scale reading NOT equal the weight of the box?
A)The scale and box are in an airplane flying at constant speed.
B)The scale and box are in an elevator rising at constant speed.
C)The scale and box are in a hot air balloon in level flight.
D)The scale and box are on a steep slope, held in place by friction.
E)The scale and box are on Mars.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The scale reading equals the weight of the box in scenarios where the box is in a state of uniform motion or on a different planet (assuming the scale is calibrated for gravity differences). However, on a steep slope, the normal force (which the scale measures) is less than the actual weight of the box due to the component of weight acting parallel to the slope. This results in a lower scale reading than the actual weight.

A Box Is on a Scale