A person stands on a scale in an elevator. As the elevator starts, the scale has a constant reading of 594 N. As the elevator later stops, the scale reading is 396 N. Assume the magnitude of the acceleration is the same during starting and stopping.

4.9 m/s²

Explanation:

F = reading of the elevator while running = 594 N

W = weight of person and elevator together when at stop = 396 N

m = mass of person and elevator together

a = acceleration of elevator

Weight of the person is given as

W = mg

inserting the values

396 = m (9.8)

m = 40.4 kg

Force equation for the motion of the elevator is given as

F - W = ma

Inserting the values

594 - 396 = (40.4) a

a = 4.9 m/s²