Explain how the rate of ATP production affects an athlete's performance in a 200 m sprint. (6 marks)
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Sample Answer
- The ATP-PCr system produces ATP rapidly from creatine phosphate to power explosive acceleration in the first 10-15 m of the race.
- The glycolytic system becomes the main ATP producer through rapid glucose breakdown, allowing continued high-intensity effort through the middle section.
- The aerobic system contributes minimal ATP due to its slow production rate and the oxygen deficit created during maximal sprinting.
- The glycolytic system’s rapid ATP production creates lactic acid as a by-product, which begins to interfere with energy production.
- Enzyme function and muscle contraction become impaired as lactic acid accumulates, reducing the rate of ATP production.
- Running speed decreases in the final 50 m as the rate of ATP production can no longer support maximal sprint intensity.
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Sample Answer
- The ATP-PCr system produces ATP rapidly from creatine phosphate to power explosive acceleration in the first 10-15 m of the race.
- The glycolytic system becomes the main ATP producer through rapid glucose breakdown, allowing continued high-intensity effort through the middle section.
- The aerobic system contributes minimal ATP due to its slow production rate and the oxygen deficit created during maximal sprinting.
- The glycolytic system’s rapid ATP production creates lactic acid as a by-product, which begins to interfere with energy production.
- Enzyme function and muscle contraction become impaired as lactic acid accumulates, reducing the rate of ATP production.
- Running speed decreases in the final 50 m as the rate of ATP production can no longer support maximal sprint intensity.