Part C
This simulation shows only the changes in energy that cause the motion of the skateboarder. What energy
transformations are going on within the skateboarder's body during this process?
During this process, the skateboarder's body is going through several energy transformations. Firstly, the chemical energy stored in the skateboarder's muscles is converted into kinetic energy as they push off the ground and begin moving forward on the skateboard. As the skateboarder gains speed, the kinetic energy of their body increases, as well as their gravitational potential energy due to their increased height off the ground and the ramp. When the skateboarder reaches the top of the ramp, their kinetic energy is converted into gravitational potential energy, as they reach the highest point of their jump. As they begin to descend, their gravitational potential energy is then converted back into kinetic energy, which enables them to continue moving forward on the ramp. In addition, some energy is lost to non-conservative forces such as friction between the skateboard and the ramp, as well as air resistance. Overall, the skateboarder's body transforms chemical energy into kinetic and potential energy, with energy being lost to non-conservative forces along the way.
During the process of skateboarding, there are several energy transformations happening within the skateboarder's body. These include:
1. Chemical to Mechanical Energy: The skateboarder's muscles convert the chemical energy stored in the body's nutrients (mainly through the process of cellular respiration) into mechanical energy, allowing them to contract and generate motion.
2. Mechanical to Kinetic Energy: As the skateboarder pushes off the ground and starts moving, the mechanical energy generated by their muscles is transformed into kinetic energy as they gain speed and velocity.
3. Kinetic to Potential Energy: When the skateboarder gains height during a jump, their kinetic energy is converted into potential energy. This occurs as they move against the force of gravity, increasing their height above the ground.
4. Potential to Kinetic Energy: As the skateboarder descends from a jump or a ramp, their potential energy is transformed back into kinetic energy. This occurs as they accelerate downward due to the force of gravity.
5. Heat Energy: Some of the energy generated by the skateboarder's muscles is converted into heat energy during the motion. This is due to inefficiencies in the muscle contractions.
It's important to note that these energy transformations are happening simultaneously and continuously as the skateboarder moves, allowing them to perform various tricks and maneuvers.