Energy Efficiency: Input & Output (Work/Energy)

In summary, the conversation discusses how to calculate the input energy provided by a 54 kg athlete who runs from rest to a speed of 11m/s on a flat surface with an efficiency of 85%. The solution involves using the formula E in = E out/efficiency, and since the athlete's energy output is entirely kinetic, the formula E out = 1/2mv^2 can be used. It is also mentioned that when using the efficiency formula, the symbol % represents division by 100 and can be removed or kept depending on how efficiency is represented in the equation.
  • #1
harujina
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1

Homework Statement



In a race, a 54 kg athlete runs from rest to a speed of 11m/s on a flat surface. The athlete's body has an efficiency of 85% during the run. How much input energy did the athlete provide?

Homework Equations



efficiency = E out/E in x 100%

The Attempt at a Solution



I know E in = E out/efficiency
and efficiency = 85%, m = 54 kg, vi = 0, vf = 11 m/s
but how can I find E out?
Eg = mgh ?
There's no height though...?
 
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  • #2
harujina said:

The Attempt at a Solution



I know E in = E out/efficiency
and efficiency = 85%, m = 54 kg, vi = 0, vf = 11 m/s
but how can I find E out?
Eg = mgh ?
There's no height though...?

His energy output is entirely kinetic! No need for a height.
 
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  • #3
rock.freak667 said:
His energy output is entirely kinetic! No need for a height.

Oh, right.
Could I use Ek = 1/2mv^2 to solve this then?
 
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  • #4
harujina said:
Oh, right.
Could I use Ek = 1/2mv^2 to solve this then?

Yes you can :approve:
 
  • #5
The normal formula of efficiency is: Eout/Ein x 100% = Eff%. Why is it that when solving this question you guys got rid of the "x100%" ?
 
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  • #6
Matthew L said:
The normal formula of efficiency is: Eout/Ein x 100% = Eff%. Why is it that when solving this question you guys got rid of the "x100%" ?
Good question regarding the basics. The answer lies in how we ll put efficiency into this equation. IF for example efficiency is 85% and we put it in the equation the efficiency as just 85 then we got to keep the 100. If we put efficiency as 0.85 then we got to remove the 100.

The symbol % in here just means division by 100. When we say efficiency is 85% we actually mean it is 85/100=0.85. When we multiply x100% we multiply by 100 and then divide by 100, so its like multiplying by 1.
 
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  • #7
Delta2 said:
Good question regarding the basics. The answer lies in how we ll put efficiency into this equation. IF for example efficiency is 85% and we put it in the equation the efficiency as just 85 then we got to keep the 100. If we put efficiency as 0.85 then we got to remove the 100.

The symbol % in here just means division by 100. When we say efficiency is 85% we actually mean it is 85/100=0.85. When we multiply x100% we multiply by 100 and then divide by 100, so its like multiplying by 1.
thank you!
 
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Related to Energy Efficiency: Input & Output (Work/Energy)

1. What is energy efficiency?

Energy efficiency refers to the ratio of useful output energy to the total input energy. It measures how much of the input energy is converted into useful output energy. The higher the efficiency, the more energy is effectively used.

2. Why is energy efficiency important?

Energy efficiency is important for several reasons. It helps to reduce energy consumption and costs, which is beneficial for both individuals and businesses. It also reduces the demand for energy production, which in turn reduces the negative environmental impacts of energy production, such as air and water pollution.

3. How is energy efficiency calculated?

Energy efficiency is calculated by dividing the useful output energy by the total input energy. The result is then multiplied by 100 to get a percentage. For example, if a light bulb converts 50% of the input energy into light, the energy efficiency would be 50%.

4. What are some ways to improve energy efficiency?

There are many ways to improve energy efficiency, such as using energy-efficient appliances and equipment, implementing energy-saving practices, and improving insulation and weatherization in buildings. It is also important to regularly maintain and upgrade equipment to ensure it is functioning at its most efficient level.

5. How does energy efficiency contribute to sustainability?

Energy efficiency is a key component of sustainability as it helps to reduce energy consumption and decrease the negative environmental impacts of energy production. By using energy more efficiently, we can decrease our reliance on non-renewable energy sources and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, helping to create a more sustainable future.

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