Math Problem Statement

An elite human sprinter reaches his top speed of 11.8 m/s at a time of 6.97 s after the starting gun. In the first 1.43 s , however, he reaches a speed of 8.00 m/s , with a nearly constant acceleration. Calculate his maximum acceleration during the starting phase.

Solution

To calculate the maximum acceleration during the starting phase, we can use the following kinematic equation that relates acceleration aa, initial velocity v0v_0, final velocity vv, and time tt:

v=v0+atv = v_0 + a t

Given dataTo calculate the maximum acceleration during the starting phase, we can use the following kinematic equation that relates acceleration aa, initial velocity v0v_0, final velocity vv, and time tt:

v=v0+atv = v_0 + a t

Given

  • Initial velocity v0=0m/sv_0 = 0 \, \text{m/s} (since the sprinter starts from rest).
  • Final velocity v=8.00m/sv = 8.00 \, \text{m/s}.
  • Time t=1.43st = 1.43 \, \text{s}.

Rearranging the equation for acceleration aa:

a=vv0ta = \frac{v - v_0}{t}

Since v0=0v_0 = 0, the equation simplifies to:

a=vta = \frac{v}{t}

Now substitute the given values:

a=8.00m/s1.43sa = \frac{8.00 \, \text{m/s}}{1.43 \, \text{s}}

Let's calculate this.

a5.59m/s2a \approx 5.59 \, \text{m/s}^2

Conclusion:

The sprinter's maximum acceleration during the starting phase is approximately 5.59m/s25.59 \, \text{m/s}^2.

Would you like more details, or do you have any further questions?


Here are 5 related questions to explore further:

  1. How can we calculate the total distance covered during the acceleration phase?
  2. What is the sprinter's velocity after 3 seconds if acceleration continues at this rate?
  3. How does the sprinter's acceleration compare to typical values for elite athletes?
  4. How much force would be required to achieve this acceleration if the sprinter's mass is 70 kg?
  5. How can we model the sprinter's motion after reaching the top speed?

Tip: Always check the units of your given values to ensure consistent calculations.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Kinematics
Acceleration
Linear Motion

Formulas

v = v0 + a * t
a = (v - v0) / t

Theorems

Newton's Second Law of Motion

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12