Year 12 Biomeachanics

What is biomechanics?

The study of motion and the effects of forces relative to the body.

What does biomechanics apply to human performance?

The laws of mechanics and physics.

What is the main purpose of biomechanics in sport?

To improve the mechanical aspects of sports performance.

What is one benefit of biomechanics relating to technique?

It improves technique efficiency.

How can biomechanics reduce injury?

By understanding causes of injury and applying correct technique.

How can biomechanics improve sporting equipment?

Equipment can be modified to improve performance, power, accuracy and ease of use

Give an example of biomechanical technology used in sport.

Bowling machines and video analysis software.

What is force?

A push or pull that, when unopposed, can change the motion of an object.

What is the formula for force?

Force = mass x acceleration

What can force do to an object?

Start it moving, stop it, change its speed, change its direction or balance another force.

What are internal forces?

Forces produced by structures within the body that interact to create movement.

Give an example of an internal force.

Muscles and tendons producing force together.

What are external forces?

Forces resulting from interaction between the body and its environment.

What are contact forces?

Forces acting when objects are in direct contact.

Give examples of contact forces.

Friction, ground reaction force, air resistance and water resistance.

What are non-contact forces?

Forces acting without direct physical contact.

What is an example of a non-contact force?

Gravity

What is Newton's First Law?

An object remains at rest or in motion unless acted upon by an external force.

What is Newton's First Law also called?

law of inertia

What is inertia?

The resistance to a change in an object's state of motion.

What determines an object's inertia?

Its mass

What happens to inertia as mass increases?

Inertia increases.

What happens when an object has greater inertia?

More force is required to change its state of motion.

How does Newton's First Law explain a stationary netball?

It remains stationary until a force is applied to it.

How does Newton's First Law explain a moving ball eventually stopping?

External forces such as friction act against its motion.

Why is a heavier object harder to get moving?

It has greater mass and therefore greater inertia.