What's the melting point of a person?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the concept of human bodies experiencing extreme heat and the resulting severe burns, rather than literal melting. It highlights the conditions during the bombings of Dresden and Tokyo, where temperatures reached up to 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit due to incendiary bombs. Severe burns occur at temperatures above 120 degrees Fahrenheit, with third-degree burns possible above 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Factors such as humidity, oxygen levels, and exposure duration also influence the severity of burns and tissue damage.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of thermal injury and burn classifications
  • Knowledge of historical events, specifically the bombings of Dresden and Tokyo
  • Familiarity with temperature scales and their effects on human physiology
  • Awareness of environmental factors affecting heat exposure
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the effects of high temperatures on human physiology
  • Study the historical context and aftermath of the Dresden and Tokyo bombings
  • Explore burn treatment protocols and first aid for severe burns
  • Investigate the role of environmental factors in heat-related injuries
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for historians, medical professionals, emergency responders, and anyone interested in the effects of extreme heat on human health and safety.

Smurf
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Just thinking about those stories you hear about dresden and tokyo. The ones about people being melted alive in bunkers. Exactly what conditions would have to exist for that to be possible?
 
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Smurf said:
Just thinking about those stories you hear about dresden and tokyo. The ones about people being melted alive in bunkers. Exactly what conditions would have to exist for that to be possible?
Smacks Smurf with Pengwuino's salmon.

We're not going to discuss how to melt people here. Anyone that wants can pm Smurf.
 


First and foremost, it is important to clarify that a person cannot physically melt like a solid substance such as ice or metal. The term "melting" in this context is often used metaphorically to describe the horrific and devastating effects of intense heat and fire on human bodies.

That being said, the exact conditions necessary for a person to experience extreme burns and tissue damage can vary depending on the source and intensity of the heat. In the case of the bombings in Dresden and Tokyo during World War II, it is believed that the intense firestorms created by the dropping of incendiary bombs caused temperatures to reach up to 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit. This extreme heat, combined with the lack of proper shelter and protective gear, led to the tragic deaths of many individuals who were unable to escape the inferno.

In general, for a person to experience severe burns and tissue damage, the temperature would need to be significantly higher than the average human body temperature of 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. Exposure to temperatures above 120 degrees Fahrenheit can cause first-degree burns, while temperatures above 150 degrees Fahrenheit can cause second-degree burns. At temperatures above 160 degrees Fahrenheit, third-degree burns can occur, which can be life-threatening and cause extensive damage to the skin and underlying tissues.

In addition to the high temperatures, other factors such as humidity, oxygen levels, and the duration of exposure can play a role in the severity of burns and tissue damage. It is also worth noting that individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those who are malnourished may be more vulnerable to extreme heat and its effects on the body.

In conclusion, while a person cannot physically melt like a solid substance, intense heat and fire can cause severe burns and tissue damage that can be fatal. The conditions necessary for this to occur include high temperatures, lack of protective gear or shelter, and other environmental factors. It is important to remember and honor the victims of such tragedies and to work towards preventing similar events from happening in the future.
 

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