Question

Sprinters start their races from a crouched position with their bodies well forward of their feet. This position allows them to accelerate quickly without tipping over backward. Explain this effect in terms of torque and center of mass.

Answer 1

#See solution for details.

Step-by-step explanation:

-The runner experience a large frictional force against his/her during take-off.

-The large frictional force subsequently produces a large torque rotating the feet backward.

-The center of mass being well forward of the feet, there will be counterbalancing torque rotating the forward which keeps the runner from tipping over.