Question

What is the force on a 1000 kg elevator that is falling freely at 9.8 m/sec2? And How do I draw a Free Body Diagram of this?

Answer 1

The only force on it is its weight, `w = 9800 N`.

Explanation:

Since it is falling freely, the only force on it is its weight, w.

`w = m*g = 1000 kg*9.8 m/s^2 = 9800 N`

To draw a Free Body Diagram, draw an elevator cage (I am sure you would get lots of points for drawing it with intricate detail) with a downward force of 9800 N.

I hope this helps,
Steve