A simple elevator ride can teach you quite a bit about the normal force as this

Question

A simple elevator ride can teach you quite a bit about the normal force as this rider below can (hopefully) tell you. There are three different scenarios given, detailing the rider's experience in an unnamed hotel. For each scenario, calculate the normal force, FN,1-3, acting on the rider if his mass is m = 73.6 kg and the acceleration due to gravity g = 9.81 m/s^2. In scenario 1, the elevator has constant velocity. In scenario 2 the elevator is moving with upward acceleration a2 = 3.50 m/s^2. Finally, in scenario 3, unfortunately for the rider, the cable breaks and the elevator accelerates downward at a = 9.81 m/s^2.

Explanation / Answer

Scenario 1)

Since the velocity is constant, there is no additional acceleration

F = mg

F = (73.6)(9.81) = 722 N

Scenario 2)

Since the acceleration is upward, you will experience a greater force.

F = mg + ma

F = (73.6)(9.81 + 3.5)

F = 980 N

Part C)

Since the acceleration is downward, you will experience a reduced force

As a matter of fact, the acceleration is that of gravity so you will feel weightless...

F = mg - ma

F = (73.6)(9.81 - 9.81)

F = 0 N

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