Motion of an Elevator

Try this problem useful for the Physics Olympiad based on Motion of an Elevator.

The Problem: Motion of an Elevator

An elevator of mass M is accelerated upwards by applying a force F. A mass m initially situated at a height

of 1m above the floor of the elevator is falling freely. It will hit the floor of the elevator after a time equal to

• √(2M/F+mg)
• √(2M/F-mg)
• √2M/F
• √2M/(F+Mg)

Discussion:

Acceleration of elevator a_e= F/M ( in upward direction)

Acceleration due to gravity is in downward direction so acceleration of mass a_s= -g

Acceleration of mass with respect to elevator

= a_s-a_e

=(F/M)+g

=(F+Mg)/M

We know,

s=ut+(1/2)at²

From the given problem, we have s=1m

so,

1=(F+Mg)t²/M

t=√2M/(F+Mg)

Some Useful Links:

• Angular Momentum – Problem
• YouTube Channel