1. Determining “Apparent Weight”
The Elevator Problem

2. Elevator Problem Formulas
Remember:
F(net) = m x a
Fg = mass x acc. due to gravity
On a scale, there are two forces acting on you (Fg & Fn)
Fn = Fscale
Therefore… Fnet = Fscale – Fg
Elevator Demo

3. Set Up and Apparent Weight Outcomes to Know
When an elevator is at rest or in constant motion Fnet = balanced, so…
Fscale = Fn
(Apparent weight is equal to actual weight)
When an elevator is accelerating upward…
Fnet = Fscale – Fg
(Apparent weight will be greater than actual weight)

4. Set Up and Apparent Weight Outcomes to Know (cont.)
When an elevator is accelerating downward…
Fnet = Fscale – Fg
(Apparent weight is less than actual weight)
When in an elevator and the cable breaks!!!
“Help Me!!! I Don’t Want To Die!!!”
Fnet = Fscale – Fg (equal but opposite directions)
You will feel weightless 