How much work? Given speeds and mass

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the work done by an Olympic triathlete accelerating on a bicycle, with a focus on the change in speed and mass. The subject area pertains to mechanics, specifically work and energy concepts.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the appropriate equations for calculating work, with some questioning the relevance of gravitational energy in this context. There are attempts to clarify how to solve for distance and acceleration using kinematics.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants exploring different interpretations of the work-energy principle. Some guidance has been offered regarding the use of kinetic energy to find the work done, but no consensus has been reached on the best approach.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of the need to clarify the definitions of work in the context of this problem, as well as the constraints of the given information regarding the mass and speeds involved.

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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 5m/s to 10m/s


Homework Equations


W = mg\Deltad


The Attempt at a Solution


Tried solving for d, and plugging in.
 
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Your equation would apply if there was gravitational energy involved, but in this question there isn't. Work here is defined as W = Fd where F = ma.
 
But still, how would I solve for d?
 
Use kinematics to solve for a and d simultaneously.
 
W = delta(KE)

All you need to do is subtract her final kinetic energy from her initial kinetic energy to find the answer.
 

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