Calculating Power for an Elevator with Maximum Load and Speed

In summary, the problem involves calculating the power provided by an electric motor in an elevator carrying a maximum load of 800kg at a speed of 2.3 m/s. The equation P=F*v can be used, with the force (F) being the weight of the elevator and its occupants (melevator + mpeople) multiplied by the acceleration due to gravity (g) and the velocity (v). However, this may not give the correct answer and may require using other formulas. One possible solution is to calculate the weight acting downwards and then use the equation P=F*v to find the power provided by the motor.
  • #1
nns91
301
1

Homework Statement



A 1200kg elevator driven by an electric motor can safely carry a maximum load of 800kg. What is the power provided by the motor when the elevator ascends with a full load at a speed of 2.3 m/s

Homework Equations



P=F*v

The Attempt at a Solution



So I use directly P=F*v=(melevator+mpeople)*g*v

However I got the wrong answer. Does it involve any other formula here ?
 
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  • #2


Hi nns91,

nns91 said:

Homework Statement



A 1200kg elevator driven by an electric motor can safely carry a maximum load of 800kg. What is the power provided by the motor when the elevator ascends with a full load at a speed of 2.3 m/s

Homework Equations



P=F*v

The Attempt at a Solution



So I use directly P=F*v=(melevator+mpeople)*g*v

However I got the wrong answer. Does it involve any other formula here ?


What answer did you get?
 
  • #3


Dont you calculate the weight acting downwards so

w=mg

where the mass is 1200+800=2000kg

multiplied by g = 9.81ms^-2

so f downwards or the weight = 19620

then put it in

p=fv

so p= 19620 x 2.3

p= 45126 w


thats how i would do it don't know if I am right =]
 

FAQ: Calculating Power for an Elevator with Maximum Load and Speed

What is the "Energy Elevator Problem"?

The energy elevator problem, also known as the elevator paradox, is a thought experiment that explores the concept of energy conservation and the laws of thermodynamics. It involves a hypothetical scenario where an elevator is powered by a weight that is slowly descending, converting potential energy into kinetic energy. The question is, where does the energy go once the elevator reaches the ground floor?

How does the Energy Elevator Problem challenge the laws of thermodynamics?

The energy elevator problem challenges the first law of thermodynamics, which states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred or converted. In this scenario, it appears that energy is disappearing as the elevator reaches the ground floor.

What is the solution to the Energy Elevator Problem?

The solution to the energy elevator problem lies in the fact that energy is not actually disappearing, but rather being transferred to other forms. As the elevator descends, the potential energy of the weight is converted into kinetic energy, which is then transferred to the surrounding air as heat and sound. This transfer of energy may not be easily observable, but it follows the laws of thermodynamics.

How does the Energy Elevator Problem relate to real-life situations?

The energy elevator problem is a simplified thought experiment, but it can be applied to real-life situations such as energy production and consumption. It highlights the importance of understanding how energy is transferred and converted in various systems, and how energy conservation must be considered in these processes.

Are there any other thought experiments that explore energy conservation?

Yes, there are several other thought experiments that explore energy conservation, such as the "Maxwell's Demon" and the "Carnot Cycle". These experiments help us understand the fundamental principles of energy and how it behaves in different systems.

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