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Dead body heavier than a live one?

• Thread starter Thread starter fawk3s
• Start date Start date Jan 16, 2010
• Tags Tags Body

Click For Summary SUMMARY

A dead body does not weigh more than a live body; both have the same mass. The perception of increased weight is due to the inability of a dead body to assist in weight distribution and center of gravity adjustments. Live bodies can actively engage muscles to shift weight, making them feel lighter when being lifted or supported. This phenomenon is often referred to as the "sandbag effect," where the distribution of weight alters the perceived heaviness.

PREREQUISITES

• Basic understanding of physics concepts such as weight and mass
• Knowledge of biomechanics related to weight distribution
• Familiarity with the concept of center of gravity
• Awareness of the "sandbag effect" in weight perception

NEXT STEPS

• Research the principles of biomechanics and weight distribution techniques
• Explore the concept of center of gravity in physics
• Study the "sandbag effect" and its applications in lifting techniques
• Investigate how muscle engagement affects weight perception in physical activities

USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students of physics, fitness trainers, and anyone interested in understanding the mechanics of weight lifting and body dynamics.

fawk3s Messages 341 Reaction score 1 Hi Happened to hear that a dead body may weight more that a live body. Now is that true and if it is, then why? Thanks in advance, fawk3s Last edited by a moderator: Nov 23, 2023 Biology news on Phys.org

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Sorry! Messages 416 Reaction score 0

fawk3s said: Hi Happened to hear something like that. Now is that true and if it is, then why? Thanks in advance, fawk3s

A dead body has no weight difference compared to a live body. However a live body is able to do things that a dead body can not do. Such as: Distribute weight to change centre of gravity. Assist in the lift Or even distribute their weight across different areas of your body (I.e. holding on around your neck would distribute the weight even more.) A dead weight basically means that the centre of gravity is where ever you are supporting the weighted load with no support from it. It feels heavier, but it weighs the same. fawk3s Messages 341 Reaction score 1 Yeap, always thought it was the sandbag effect. Thanks.

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