Physics of a runner (Constant Acceleration/ constant velocity)

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around a physics problem involving a sprinter who accelerates uniformly for the first 41 meters of a 100-meter dash before maintaining a top speed for the remaining distance. The key equations provided include F=ma and kinematic equations for motion. The user expresses confusion about how to approach the problem, particularly in determining the average horizontal force during acceleration and the sprinter's top speed. Suggestions include calculating the total time taken as a function of top speed and setting it equal to 10 seconds to find the necessary values. The conversation highlights the challenges of applying physics concepts to real-world scenarios in sprinting.
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Homework Statement


"The 100- dash can be run by the best sprinters in 10.0 . A 64- sprinter accelerates uniformly for the first 41 to reach top speed, which he maintains for the remaining 59 ."

What is the average horizontal component of force exerted on his feet by the ground during acceleration?

What is the speed of the sprinter over the last 59 of the race (i.e., his top speed)?


Homework Equations



F=ma
v=Vi+at
Xo=Xi+Vit+.5at^2
Vo^2=Vi^2+2a(Xo-Xi)

The Attempt at a Solution



I honestly have no idea how to even start this problem.

For the part where the runner is accelerating, here is what I have
Xi-0
Xo-41
Vi-0
Vo-?
a-?
t-?

Which is not much... For when he is at a constant speed, here is what I have.

Xi-41
Xo-100
Vi-?
Vo- ? (the same as Vi, as he is at a constant velocity)
a-0
t-?

So Xo=.5at
41=.5at

Vo=at
a=Vo/t

Vo^2=Vi^2+2a(Xo-Xi)
Vo^2=0+2(Vo/t)(41)

I am completely stuck... I have no idea where to go from here. Am I just looking at it wrong, or is there some important part that I missed?
 
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just assume the topspeed is equal to v. Compute the total time taken as a function of v and set that equal to 10 seconds.
 
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