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What is the power output in watts and horsepower of a 70.0-kg sprinter who accelerates from rest to 10.0 m/s in 3.00 s?

Considering the amount of power generated, do you think a well-trained athlete could do this repetitively for long periods of time?

A. (a) 700 W, 0.938 hp, (b) Yes
B. (a) 700 W, 0.938 hp, (b) No
C. (a) 1300 W, 1.74 hp, (b) Yes
D. (a) 1300 W, 1.74 hp, (b) No

1 Answer

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Final answer:

The power output of the sprinter is 1167 watts and 1.57 horsepower. A well-trained athlete may not be able to do this repetitively for long periods of time.

Step-by-step explanation:

To find the power output of the sprinter, we can use the equation:

Power = (Work done) / (Time taken)

First, let's calculate the work done. We know that work is equal to the change in kinetic energy, so:

Work = (1/2) * mass * (final velocity^2 - initial velocity^2)

Plugging in the values:

Work = (1/2) * 70.0 kg * (10.0 m/s)^2 - 0

Work = 3500 J

Next, we can calculate the power using the formula:

Power = Work / Time

Plugging in the values:

Power = 3500 J / 3.00 s

Power = 1167 W

To convert the power to horsepower, we can use the conversion factor 1 hp = 746 W:

Power(hp) = Power(W) / 746

Plugging in the values:

Power(hp) = 1167 W / 746

Power(hp) = 1.57 hp

So, the power output of the sprinter is 1167 watts and 1.57 horsepower.

As for whether a well-trained athlete could do this repetitively for long periods of time, it would depend on their training and stamina. Sprinting at full power continuously for a long period of time would be challenging and potentially unsustainable.

Answer: (a) 1167 W, 1.57 hp, (b) No

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