Question

Explain why bicycles have gears in terms of the force-velocity property of muscle.

Answer 1

Gears on a bicycle are designed to accommodate the force-velocity property of muscle, allowing cyclists to exert greater force at lower velocities and less force at higher velocities, thereby optimizing pedaling efficiency under varying conditions of terrain and required speed.

Step-by-step explanation:

Bicycles have gears in order to match the force-velocity property of muscle, which refers to the ability of muscles to produce greater force when contracting at slower velocities and less force at higher velocities. When a cyclist encounters a steep hill, they may shift to a lower gear. This gear allows them to pedal at a faster velocity relative to the wheel, which means the muscles are moving more slowly relative to the bicycle, allowing them to exert a greater force to overcome the hill's resistance. Conversely, when going downhill or on a flat surface, a cyclist can use a higher gear, which requires less force but can be turned at a high velocity, allowing the cyclist to maintain a high speed with less muscular effort. Gears are a practical application of the principle that force required to spin the bike wheel is directly related to the angular acceleration produced. The more massive the wheel, or the closer you apply the force to the axle, the smaller the angular acceleration for a given force.

Riding a bicycle also involves the dynamic interplay of friction, torque, and centripetal force to navigate turns and maintain balance. The appropriate gear selection can significantly impact the effective management of these forces, contributing to an efficient and stable ride.

Answer 2

2 wheels force is put on the back gear to push a larger gear on front . when pedalling on flat force should be applied on middle to smaller size. However when bike reached a terminal force it rider will move to smaller gear and go faster. If bike is going down hill the force of gravity will mean rider can manage the smallest gear as in fastest speed as Force = Mass × Velocity and the impact of gravity means less force is required as the weight of the bike and rider However the opposite it through for uphill as the rider is going against gravity ..weight and gravity will mean the rider will need to go to the larger gear the slower speed.

There are other factors as in wind and slip stream and type of pedals to maximise the force.