High Jump Physics: Leaping 1.55m with 0.70m/s Speed

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the minimum speed an athlete must achieve to clear a height of 1.55 meters in the high jump while maintaining a speed of 0.70 m/s upon crossing the bar. The participant initially attempted to apply the kinetic energy (KE) and potential energy (PE) formulas but made an error in the square root calculation. The correct approach involves equating the initial kinetic energy to the sum of the potential energy at the peak height and the kinetic energy at the bar height, leading to the correct minimum takeoff speed calculation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of kinetic energy and potential energy concepts
  • Familiarity with basic physics equations and algebra
  • Knowledge of gravitational acceleration (9.81 m/s²)
  • Ability to perform square root calculations accurately
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  • Study the principles of energy conservation in physics
  • Learn about the biomechanics of high jump techniques
  • Explore advanced kinematics related to projectile motion
  • Review common mistakes in algebraic manipulations in physics problems
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Physics students, athletic coaches, sports scientists, and anyone interested in the mechanics of high jump performance.

Morgan89
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In the high jump, the kinetic energy of an athlete is transformed into gravitational potential energy without the aid of a pole. With what minimum speed must the athlete leave the ground in order to lift his center of mass 1.55 m and cross the bar with a speed of 0.70 m/s


I have tried solving this problem by using the formulas for kinetic and potential energy. I thought that the initial kinetic energy would equal the potential energy plus the kinetic energy in the air.

KE = PE + KE'
.5(m)(v^2) = m(g)(h) + .5(m)(v^2)
Then i figured i could cancel out mass since it is in all parts
.5(v^2) = (9.81)(1.55) + .5(.7^2)
v= Sqrt (15.205 + .245)
v = 30.9

This is the wrong answer, and i am not sure what i am doing wrong. Please help.
 
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Did you actually take the square root? It doesn't look like you did.
 
Thank you. that was the problem! Appreciate it!
 

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