Question Detail
Question
If the cable of an elevator breaks and it is in free fall (accelerating downward at a = g), the passenger experiences weightlessness because:
Correct Answer
Option C is the correct answer.
Detailed Explanation
For downward acceleration, T = m(g - a). If a = g, then T = m(g - g) = 0. Since the tension T is equal to the normal force R, the normal force is zero, giving the sensation of weightlessness.
Hint
What does a scale actually measure? It measures the normal force pushing up on you.