Can a Hypothetical Device Save a Human from Extreme G-Force Acceleration?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the hypothetical scenario of a human experiencing extreme g-forces, specifically 20,000 g, while being accelerated by a jetpack or within a vessel. Participants explore the feasibility of a device that could mitigate the effects of such acceleration on the human body, questioning the nature of gravity and acceleration.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that if a human is accelerated at 20,000 m/s², the forces acting on them would be similar to being in a uniform gravitational field of 20,408 g, leading to differential forces that could be harmful.
  • Others argue that to experience zero gravity while moving with the vessel, the acceleration must act equally on all parts of the body, which is not achievable with current technology.
  • One participant suggests that creating a uniform gravitational field of 20,000 g would require significant engineering challenges, potentially involving massive celestial bodies.
  • There is a discussion about the possibility of an "anti-gravity field" that could shield a human from the effects of acceleration, though this is met with skepticism and claims that such a concept does not exist in physics.
  • Some participants mention alternative methods to reduce the effects of acceleration, such as positioning the body in a prone position or using neutral buoyancy, but acknowledge these methods have limitations.
  • A study is referenced where frogs were exposed to high g-forces in breathable fluid without damage, suggesting that similar principles might be applied to humans, although this remains speculative.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of views on the feasibility of reducing g-forces on humans. There is no consensus on the possibility of creating a device to mitigate these effects, and the discussion remains unresolved regarding the theoretical implications and practical applications.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that the discussion involves significant assumptions about the nature of gravity and acceleration, as well as the limitations of current technology in generating uniform gravitational fields. The concept of an anti-gravity field is widely challenged, and the discussion includes references to the physical limits of human tolerance to acceleration.

  • #31
sophiecentaur said:
Have you been reading al the above comments?
We have been pointing out the lethal consequences to bodily liquids and tissues at that level of acceleration - with or without 'Anti-g' measures. How can you then suggest the traveller would be in a position to move about? She would be DEAD.
Okay, got it, sorry.
 
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  • #32
Jane said:
If it's not possible for a human to withstand so much g, how do they live in the international space station?
The acceleration on the ISS is approximately 0 g. The ISS is not firing its engines like a big jet pack.

Jane said:
And how about Apollo 10 ultimate speed record? 11.08 km/s with people inside. It's speed, not acceleration, but it was high as well. Shouldn't it be extremely uncomfortable for them?
Speed, by itself, has no adverse effect.
 
  • #33
Jane said:
A hypotetical costume diminishes the force that affects her body.
All costumes produced to date obey the laws of physics, one of which is F=ma. If the costume reduces net force then acceleration must also reduce (assuming that the wearer refuses to be cut into small pieces with reduced mass). There simply is no way to reduce net force and keep high acceleration.
 
  • #34
Jane said:
A hypotetical costume diminishes the force that affects her body. That 20,408 g that would've destroy her otherwise.
Newton's second law says F=ma. There is no magical pixie dust exception for fancy costumes. Your acceleration is determined by the force on your body.

The best one can do is to try to spread that force out evenly so that the associated stresses are not too extreme (g suits, recumbent position, water bed, liquid breathing, etc). But 20,000 g's is too extreme to mitigate that way.

Edit: Dithered too long and @Dale beat me to it.
 

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