Which speed is closest to the optimal efficiency according to the data?

Which speed is closest to the optimal efficiency according to the data?

• A. 0.5 m/sec
• B. 2.5 m/sec
• C. 1.33 m/sec
• D. 3.0 m/sec

Answer: (C)

Optimal efficiency is found where the energy cost per unit distance is minimized, which appears as the peak on the efficiency versus speed data. The data show that around 1.33 m/sec the efficiency reaches its highest value. Slower speeds tend to waste energy due to starting and sustaining movement with suboptimal muscle recruitment, while faster speeds increase metabolic cost and drag, lowering efficiency. So the speed closest to the best efficiency is about 1.33 m/sec.

Optimal efficiency is found where the energy cost per unit distance is minimized, which appears as the peak on the efficiency versus speed data. The data show that around 1.33 m/sec the efficiency reaches its highest value. Slower speeds tend to waste energy due to starting and sustaining movement with suboptimal muscle recruitment, while faster speeds increase metabolic cost and drag, lowering efficiency. So the speed closest to the best efficiency is about 1.33 m/sec.