How Much Work Is Done by an Olympic Triathlete Accelerating on Her Bicycle?

AI Thread Summary
To determine the work done by an Olympic triathlete accelerating from 5 m/s to 10 m/s, the kinetic energy (Ek) formula is applied, where Ek = 1/2mv^2. The average speed during acceleration is calculated as the midpoint of the initial and final speeds. The change in kinetic energy is then found by subtracting the initial kinetic energy from the final kinetic energy. The discussion suggests that the calculated work done is 3937.5 joules. This conclusion emphasizes the relationship between work and the change in kinetic energy during acceleration.
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Homework Statement


How much work is done by an Olympic triathlete who accelerates herself on her bicycle (combined mass of 105kg) from 5 m/s to 10 m/s?


Homework Equations


Ek = 1/2mv^2
W = Fapp(d)


The Attempt at a Solution


Ek = 1/2m[(5 + 10)/2]^2

how do i go about solving this?
 
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Work is the change in energy of an object. So how much did she start with, and how much did she end up with.
 
Is the answer 3937.5 joules?
 
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