0Have you ever noticed that when you ride an elevator, you sometimes feel heavier, and other times lighter? This change in sensation happens even though your actual weight does not change. Let’s understand why, in simple words, without using equations.
- When the elevator starts moving upward – The floor pushes you a little harder to get you moving, so you feel heavier for a moment.
- When the elevator starts moving downward – The floor’s push becomes weaker, so you feel lighter.
- When the elevator moves at constant speed – You feel normal again, because the floor is pushing you just as much as usual.
Think of being in a car.
- When the car suddenly speeds up, you feel pushed back into your seat.
- When the car suddenly brakes, you feel pushed forward.
The elevator does the same thing — but in the vertical direction!
Your weight does not actually change inside an elevator. What changes is the force you feel from the floor when the elevator speeds up or slows down. That’s why you experience the fun feeling of being heavier or lighter.
Physics is not just about equations — it’s about understanding the world around you. Next time you step into an elevator, notice the difference and remember: you are feeling physics in action!
