Question

When we run fast, we consume more oxygen. Each one of us has a maximum rate of oxygen consumption. Our bodies cannot consume more oxygen than this. A scientist conducted a study of the maximum rates of oxygen consumption per kilogram body weight in 4 athletes. He also studied how much time each of them took to run a 10 km race. The result is shown in the table.

ATHLETE	MAXIMUM RATE OF OXYGEN CONSUMPTION (mL per kg per min)	TIME TO RUN 10 km RACE (min)
A1	65.5	33.2
A2	70.3	31.5
A3	55.8	38.1
A4	75.1	28.3

Answer these questions.
1. Is there a relationship between the maximum rate of oxygen consumption and time taken to run 10 km?
2. Can you suggest an explanation for this relationship?

Answer 1

1. Yes, there is a relationship between the maximum rate of oxygen consumption and time taken to run 10 km. The one who covers the distance in shortest time requires the maximum amount of oxygen. Whereas the person who covers the distance in the longest duration of time requires minimum amount of oxygen.

2. The faster we run, more the oxygen is required by our body. The intake of oxygen is increased as constant supply of it is needed to produce energy.