Power of human Heart and Brain

In summary, the power of the heart can be approximated to 1.111 watts if it forces 4 litres of blood per minute and the blood pressure is 125 mm of Hg column, with a pulse rate of 60 beats per minute. However, the brain does not get its energy from the pressure of the blood, but rather through chemical reactions involving molecules like nucleoside triphosphate (NTP). This means that the brain can still have an energy output of about 20 watts, as mentioned in Michio Kaku's book "Physics of the Impossible".
  • #1
gianeshwar
226
14
If heart forces 4 litres of blood per minute and blood pressure is 125 mm of Hg column and we consider pulse rate as 60 beats per minute then by calculation power of heart comes as approx. 1.111 watts.
If I consider the person is just lying down and obviously brain is also active .
My question is " Can brain under these average conditions be of about 20 watts as told in Michio Kaku's book"Physics of the impossibe" as I remember.
 
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  • #2
The brain isn't powered by the pressure of the blood. It gets its energy through the sugar etc molecules that are transported in that blood stream.
 
  • #3
rumborak said:
The brain isn't powered by the pressure of the blood. It gets its energy through the sugar etc molecules that are transported in that blood stream.
Means energy from chemical reactions?
 
  • #4
Yes. Specifically, a molecule called nucleoside triphosphate (NTP) is responsible for providing energy to cells.
 
  • #5
rumborak said:
The brain isn't powered by the pressure of the blood.
Unless you get really angry.
 
  • #6
Thank You friends!
 

1. How does the human heart generate power?

The human heart generates power through a process called cardiac muscle contraction. This involves the heart muscle contracting and relaxing in a coordinated manner, which allows it to pump blood throughout the body and generate the necessary energy for bodily functions.

2. Can the human heart produce more power under certain circumstances?

Yes, the human heart has the ability to produce more power under certain circumstances, such as during physical activity or in times of stress. This is due to the sympathetic nervous system being activated, which increases heart rate and contractility.

3. How does the brain control the power of the heart?

The brain controls the power of the heart through the autonomic nervous system. The sympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the "fight or flight" response, can increase heart rate and contractility, while the parasympathetic nervous system can slow down heart rate and promote relaxation.

4. Can the power of the human heart and brain be harnessed for medical purposes?

Yes, the power of the human heart and brain can be harnessed for medical purposes. For example, pacemakers use electrical impulses to regulate heart rate, and deep brain stimulation can be used to treat neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease.

5. How does stress affect the power of the human heart and brain?

Chronic stress can have negative effects on the power of the human heart and brain. It can lead to increased blood pressure, heart disease, and cognitive impairments. However, acute stress can also temporarily increase the power of the heart and brain, allowing for a quick response to a perceived threat.

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