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Homework Statement
The upward normal force exerted by the floor is 620N on an elevator passenger who weighs 650N.
Homework Equations
F=ma
The Attempt at a Solution
I am reviewing all the Homework assigned so, I do got the answers. :)
Anyways, the way I set this problem up was F=ma.
First we need to know the mass, which we get by w=mg.
650 = m9.8
m = 66.33
now we plug into F=ma.
Fnet = 66.33a
I managed to get the acceleration of .455 , but my question here is , why is the net force 620-650 and not 650-620.
Do we always subtract from the smaller force first? My first instinct was since gravity was larger it would be 650-620.
What if it was this instead: "The upward normal force exerted by the floor is 700N on an elevator passenger who weighs 100N."?
Would it be normal force-w or will it still be w-n. ?
I just need a clarification.
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