An age-old human fantasy; seen from Hercules to the Incredible Hulk.
Considered an interesting thought experiment that explores the implications of having altered human capabilities.
Understanding Muscle Strength
Definition of Strength
Refers to the force that muscles can generate.
Measurement of Force
Strain gauge: Device used to measure forces generated by muscles.
Example: 2500 Newtons is a good punch.
Concept of Super Strength
Definition
Ability to apply larger forces than normal humans, affecting objects in extraordinary ways.
Estimation of Force
Punching through a concrete wall requires 250,000 Newtons of force, 100 times more than the average punch.
Problems with Super Strength
Daily Life Challenges
Society is designed for the average person.
Difficulty with doors, objects, and fragility (e.g., glasses bending).
Dexterity Issues
Controlling immense strength for delicate tasks could be extremely challenging.
Physics of Super Strength
Newton's Third Law
Every action has an equal and opposite reaction.
Super punches or kicks would apply equal force back on the person with strength.
Super Strength in Heroic Acts
Pressure vs. Force
Pressure equals force divided by area.
Applying super strength in small areas leads to excessive pressure, causing potential damage.
Limitations in Heroic Acts
Lifting cars or planes: High pressure can cause structural damage instead of saving.
Consequences of Using Super Strength
Fighting with Super Strength
High force levels could cause severe injury or fatality, not just the dramatic throws shown in media.
Structural Damage Concerns
Actions may lead to unintended structural failures.
Conclusion
Realistic Implications
Super strength would be impractical without enhanced durability or density.
Everyday interactions and heroic acts would be hindered by the physical constraints of force and pressure.
Additional Resources
Squatch with Dan Casey.
The Space Program on Project Alpha.
Key Takeaway: While super strength is a popular concept in stories, the physics and practicality make it undesirable as a real-life superpower. Enhanced powers like durability would be necessary to make it viable.