Bending Pole Vault

In the picture

1. 1Planting box: the grounded pivot point where the pole is planted.
2. 2Curved section of the pole: it bends and stores elastic energy.
3. 3Top hand on the pole: the upper grip point that sets the lever arm.
4. 4Dashed line from top hand to planting box: the lever arm length.

Examples

• An archer’s bow bends to store energy, then sends the arrow forward.
• A diving springboard bends under a diver and springs back to launch them.

Quiz: Bending Pole Vault (Age 15)

1. 1

   What does a bent pole do while it is curved?

   • It stores elastic energy that can be released later.
   • It absorbs energy from the vaulter and turns it into heat.
   • It makes the vaulter heavier during the jump.
2. 2

   What happens as the bent pole straightens?

   • It pulls the athlete downward while it becomes straight.
   • It keeps the stored elastic energy inside the pole instead of releasing it.
   • It releases stored elastic energy and lifts the athlete upward.
3. 3

   What can a longer lever arm from the top hand to the planting box do?

   • It can increase the launch height.
   • It can make the top hand slide down the pole.
   • It can make the pole store less elastic energy.

The answers, each with its explanation, are in the app. This lesson has left the free week, so its quiz is part of the subscription.