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Figure 4 shows the take-off in the long jump - Edexcel - GCSE Physical Education - Question 5 - 2020 - Paper 1
Question 5
Figure 4 shows the take-off in the long jump. (a) Explain why the lever system operating at the take-off foot in Figure 4 is classified as a second class lever syst... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Figure 4 shows the take-off in the long jump - Edexcel - GCSE Physical Education - Question 5 - 2020 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain why the lever system operating at the take-off foot in Figure 4 is classified as a second class lever system.
Answer
In a second class lever system, the load (or resistance) is positioned between the effort and the fulcrum. In Figure 4, the weight of the jumper's body acts as the load, which is supported by the fulcrum located at the ball of the foot. The effort is applied by the gastrocnemius muscle, which generates force to propel the jumper upwards. This arrangement confirms that it operates as a second class lever due to the respective positions of the load, effort, and fulcrum.
Step 2
Explain why the second class lever system in Figure 4 operates at a mechanical advantage.
Answer
The second class lever system in Figure 4 operates at a mechanical advantage because the effort arm is longer than the resistance arm. This allows the jumper to lift their body weight with less force than would be required if the lever were designed differently. The distribution of weight (the body being a heavy load) means that only a small amount of effort is necessary to achieve the needed height for take-off, making the movement relatively easier.