Solving Elevator Question: 50kg = 300N

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In summary, the conversation discusses the relationship between weight and mass, as well as how a scale measures weight in Newtons. It also mentions the concept of acceleration and how it relates to weight and mass. The conversation ends with a reminder to understand the information rather than just looking for answers.
  • #1
gr3g1
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If a man weights 50kg, but a scale in the elevator says he is 300N, what can you say about the acceleration?

Thanks a lot
 
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  • #2
What does a scale measure? What is it measuring in this question? What would a scale tell you on the moon?
 
  • #3
The scale is weighing how heavy he is in Newtons
 
  • #4
More correctly, he has a mass of 50kg. Weight is in Newtons. What is his weight in Newtons?
 
  • #5
If the man is 50kg, what would be his weight (W = mg) if the elevator is not moving, for example? Now compare this with what the scale is reading, and apply your experience by remembering what you felt the last time you were on an elevator.

Zz.
 
  • #6
w = ma
300 = 50(a)

a = 6 m/s^2?
 
  • #7
Acceleration is a vector...
 
  • #8
6ms^2 upwards?
 
  • #9
It almost seems you are just looking for answers. Figure out the answer.
 
  • #10
I am, because it was a question on my test!
 
  • #11
It doesn't help to know an answer without understanding it. All the information is in this thread. Read through it again and try to understand.
 
  • #12
gr3g1 said:
w = ma
300 = 50(a)

a = 6 m/s^2?

Where did you get that value of a?
 

FAQ: Solving Elevator Question: 50kg = 300N

What is the formula for solving the elevator question?

The formula for solving the elevator question is F=ma, where F is the force (in newtons), m is the mass (in kilograms), and a is the acceleration (in meters per second squared).

How do I convert kilograms to newtons?

To convert kilograms to newtons, you can use the formula F=m*g, where F is the force in newtons, m is the mass in kilograms, and g is the acceleration due to gravity (which is approximately 9.8 m/s² on Earth).

What is the mass of a 50kg object in newtons?

The mass of a 50kg object in newtons is 490 newtons (50kg * 9.8 m/s² = 490 N).

What is the acceleration of an object in an elevator?

The acceleration of an object in an elevator can vary depending on factors such as the speed and direction of the elevator. However, in most cases, the acceleration will be equal to the acceleration due to gravity, which is approximately 9.8 m/s² on Earth.

How do I apply the formula to solve the elevator question?

To solve the elevator question, you will need to plug in the given values (mass and acceleration) into the formula F=ma and then solve for the force. Make sure to use consistent units (i.e. convert kilograms to newtons) before plugging in the values.

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