An athlete is preparing to perform a vertical jump.What part of the jump represents the position of the MOST potential energy in the legs to perform this activity?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The semisquat before the feet leave the ground represents the position of the most potential energy in the legs to perform a vertical jump. This is because the muscles are stretched to their maximum length in the semisquat position, allowing for a greater potential for force production during the jump. As the athlete begins to jump and leaves the ground, the potential energy in the legs is converted into kinetic energy to propel the athlete upwards. At maximal height and during the landing phase, the potential energy in the legs is decreasing as the kinetic energy is being converted back into potential energy. As the toes touch the ground during the initial landing, the potential energy in the legs is at its lowest point as the energy has been mostly dissipated and the muscles are preparing for the next jump.

An Athlete Is Preparing to Perform a Vertical Jump