Pressure due to an elephant and atmospheric pressure

In summary, the pressure exerted by an elephant's weight is less than 1 atmosphere when distributed evenly over its four feet. However, when an elephant steps on a person, the 1 atmosphere of pressure must go through the person's body and into the ground, causing harm. This is because our bodies are well-tuned to the atmospheric pressure but not to the pressure from an elephant's foot. This effect can be demonstrated by squeezing an egg in your hand and then on the hard ground.
  • #1
Pranav Jha
141
1
The pressure exerted against the ground by an elephant's weight distributed evenly over its four feet is less than 1 atmosphere. Why, then, would you be crushed beneath the foot of an elephant, while you're unharmed by the pressure of the atmosphere?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
We're in equilibrium with our environment. Our bodies are well tuned at the correct pressure so there is no problem.

If an elephant steps on you you're adding on extra pressure that your body is not used to.
 
  • #3
Divers can go underwater and experience pressures far greater than 1 atm.

The problem is when an elephant steps on you, that 1 atm has to go down through you, and into the ground. More specifically, through your curved rib cage and into the hard ground. That 1atm is not so friendly anymore under those conditions.

To demonstrate this effect, try squeezing an egg in your hand, and then try squeezing it against the hard ground. Report with the results :)
 
Last edited:

What is pressure due to an elephant?

Pressure due to an elephant refers to the force exerted by the weight of an elephant on the surface it is standing on. This pressure is typically measured in pounds per square inch (psi) or newtons per square meter (N/m^2).

How does the pressure due to an elephant compare to atmospheric pressure?

The pressure due to an elephant is significantly higher than atmospheric pressure. While atmospheric pressure at sea level is around 14.7 psi, an adult elephant can weigh up to 15,400 pounds, exerting a pressure of over 20 psi on the ground.

What are the factors that affect the pressure due to an elephant?

The pressure due to an elephant is affected by its weight, the surface area of its feet, and the type of surface it is standing on. The softer the ground, the higher the pressure will be.

How does atmospheric pressure affect an elephant?

Atmospheric pressure can affect an elephant's breathing, as they have to work harder to expand their lungs against the external pressure. High altitude areas with lower atmospheric pressure can be challenging for elephants to adapt to.

Can the pressure due to an elephant cause damage to objects or structures?

Yes, the pressure due to an elephant can cause damage to objects or structures with low weight-bearing capacity or on soft ground. This is why it is important to consider the weight of an elephant and the type of surface before allowing them to walk or stand on it.

Similar threads

Replies
20
Views
17K
  • Mechanics
Replies
3
Views
791
Replies
26
Views
1K
Replies
8
Views
6K
Replies
2
Views
934
Replies
31
Views
3K
Replies
14
Views
2K
  • Thermodynamics
Replies
11
Views
283
Replies
69
Views
3K
Replies
50
Views
3K
Back
Top