Could You Survive a Falling Elevator?

What are some of the primary safety features designed to prevent an elevator from plummeting?

• Only a single, extra-strong cable

• Multiple ropes and brakes

• A large spring at the bottom of the shaft

• A parachute system

How does a traction elevator move its car up and down?

• It uses hydraulic fluid to push the car.

• It pulls the car with metal ropes threaded through a motor, balanced by counterweights.

• It uses a large fan to create air pressure.

• It relies on a system of gears and levers without ropes.

What happens if an elevator car starts moving too fast?

• The motor automatically speeds up to compensate.

• Brakes under the car release a metal wedge into the rails to slow it down.

• The counterweight is instantly removed to lighten the load.

• The doors automatically open to reduce air pressure.

What is the main role of counterweights in an elevator system?

• To make the elevator car heavier.

• To help balance the elevator car and reduce acceleration from gravity.

• To provide extra power to the motor.

• To act as a backup brake if the main brakes fail.