A lift (elevator) moving vertically carries a passenger whose actual mass is
PHYSICS · Multi-part · AP · Physics 1: Algebra-based · Force and Translational Dynamics · Force and Translational Dynamics
Problem
A lift (elevator) moving vertically carries a passenger whose actual mass is 60kg. A spring balance fixed to the floor of the lift records the passenger’s apparent weight.
(i) Calculate the apparent weight when the lift is accelerating upwards at 2m/s2.
(ii) Calculate the apparent weight when the lift is accelerating downwards at 2m/s2.
(iii) The supporting cable of the lift snaps and the lift falls freely under gravity. What reading will the spring balance show during this interval?
(iv) Explain the physical reason for the answer obtained in part (iii) with reference to the concepts of weight and free fall.