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Apparent Weight in an Accelerating Elevator Calculator

W_apparent = m · (g + a) — a > 0 if elevator accelerates up.

Compute the apparent weight (the normal force read by a bathroom scale) of a person in an elevator that is accelerating: W = m · (g + a), where a is positive for upward acceleration and negative for downward. Reports the apparent weight in newtons and as a percentage of true weight.

Dr. Helena Ortiz By Dr. Helena Ortiz
Published Last reviewed 1 min read

Inputs

kg
m/s²

Results

Enter values and click Calculate to see results.
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How to use this calculator

  1. Fill in the inputs above using the units you already have.
  2. Values update automatically as you type — no submit button needed.
  3. Hover any result row for the underlying formula and intermediate values.

Formula

W_apparent = m · (g + a); g = 9.80665 m/s².

In depth

Compute the apparent weight (the normal force read by a bathroom scale) of a person in an elevator that is accelerating: W = m · (g + a), where a is positive for upward acceleration and negative for downward. Reports the apparent weight in newtons and as a percentage of true weight.