Pole-Vaulter Landing on a Padded Surface

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In summary, the problem involves a pole vaulter falling onto thick padding at a speed of 9.8 m/s and coming to a stop in 0.40 seconds. The goal is to find the average force on the vaulter's body due to the padding during this time interval, expressed as a fraction or multiple of his weight. However, since the vaulter's mass is not given, the problem cannot be solved.
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sona1177
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Homework Statement


A pole vaulter vaults over the bar and falls onto thick padding. He lands with a speed of 9.8 m/s; the padding then brings him to a stop in a time of .40 seconds. What is the average force on his body due to the padding during this time interval? Express your answer as a fraction or multiple of his weight. Hint: The force due to padding is not the only force acting on the vaulter during the .40 second-interval.

Homework Equations


mdeltav=Fdeltat


The Attempt at a Solution


I have no idea. IM trying to use mdeltav/t=P-mg but this isn't giving me any insight into the force. HOw do I approach this?
 
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You're on the right track. The problem is that we need to know the pole vaulter's mass to solve this problem, and we don't have that information. This problem cannot be solved as written.
 

Related to Pole-Vaulter Landing on a Padded Surface

1. How does landing on a padded surface affect a pole vaulter's performance?

The impact of landing on a padded surface can vary depending on the athlete's technique and the type of padding used. In general, landing on a padded surface can provide a softer landing, reducing the risk of injury and allowing the athlete to focus on their technique rather than the fear of a hard landing. However, some athletes may find that the added cushioning affects their balance and stability, potentially impacting their performance.

2. What are the benefits of using a padded surface for pole vaulting?

The primary benefit of using a padded surface for pole vaulting is injury prevention. The added cushioning can absorb some of the impact of the landing, reducing the strain on the athlete's body. Additionally, a padded surface can provide a more consistent and predictable landing, allowing the athlete to focus on their technique and potentially improve their performance.

3. Are there any potential drawbacks to using a padded surface for pole vaulting?

One potential drawback of using a padded surface for pole vaulting is the added cost and maintenance. Padded surfaces may need to be replaced more frequently than traditional surfaces and can be more expensive to install and maintain. Additionally, some athletes may find that the added cushioning affects their technique and may prefer a harder surface for better control.

4. What types of materials are typically used for padded pole vaulting surfaces?

The most common materials used for padded pole vaulting surfaces are foam and rubber. Foam padding is often made of polyethylene or polyurethane and can come in various thicknesses and densities. Rubber padding is typically made from recycled rubber and can provide a more durable and long-lasting option.

5. How does the padding on a pole vaulting surface affect the safety of the sport?

The padding on a pole vaulting surface plays a crucial role in the safety of the sport. It can help reduce the risk of serious injuries, such as sprains or fractures, by absorbing some of the impact of the landing. The type and thickness of the padding should be carefully chosen to provide enough cushioning without compromising the athlete's stability and technique.

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