Final answer:
A successful cheetah hunt involves spotting prey with keen vision, stalking, sprinting with explosive speed due to the cheetah's body adaptations, and then killing the prey, often by suffocation or breaking its neck. The cheetah's speed is enabled by its limb placement, muscular build, and other physical adaptations. Post-hunt, the cheetah gains energy from its prey, although only a fraction of what the prey consumed in its lifetime.
Step-by-step explanation:
The sequence of a successful cheetah hunt involves several key phases. First, the cheetah uses its excellent vision to spot prey from a distance. It then subtly approaches, taking advantage of any available cover. As the cheetah gets closer, it positions itself for a sprint. Once within range, the cheetah explodes into action, utilizing its incredible speed and acceleration. This burst of speed is made possible by the cheetah's uniquely adapted body. Specifically, the placement of the limbs, light frame, large nasal passages for increased oxygen intake, and a long tail for balance contribute to its high-speed pursuits.
When the chase begins, the cheetah can accelerate rapidly due to its powerful leg muscles and non-retractable claws that provide additional grip. In a successful hunt, the cheetah will overtake its prey, usually by tripping it, and then quickly suffocate or break the neck of the prey to secure the kill. After taking down its prey, the cheetah takes some time to recover as these high-speed chases deplete a lot of energy. The energy gained from consuming the prey, however, is only a fraction of the energy the prey has consumed in its lifetime.
Moreover, a cheetah's body, including its camouflage, enables it to blend into the surroundings to avoid early detection by its prey. This combination of physiological adaptations, hunting skills, and energy conservation strategies constitutes the sequence of a successful cheetah hunt.