Ask A Scientist© General Science Archive

name         Michael G.
status
age          30s

 Question -   What is the average volume (such as in cubic meterscubic
inches, etc.) of a human body?  And does this number represent just
men, just women, both, and for what races, is it worldwide, or only for
 certain countries
I saw the response for the average human being's density at
http://newton.dep.anl.gov/askasci/bio99/bio99503.htm and plan to do
calculations based on that information by finding the average mass of a
human being.  If you have any information about the average mass of humans
 perhaps broken down by gender, race, etc. that would be appreciated as
 well or if you can direct me to a resource where I can find this kind of
information.

By the way, the reason I would like to know this information is that
automobile manufacturers, in particular, and other industries seem to
describe the amount of useable space in a vehicle, for instance, as
volume.  Now granted we all know that a human can't fit into every little
 nook in a car, but it did make us wonder what the average volume of a human
is.
 ------------------------------------------------
Michael,

AVERAGE VOLUME:
1a.)  A very good first approximation to your question is to simply find the
average human mass (easy enough to weigh) and divide by 0.001 kg/cm^3.
1b.)  Lets take me for example, I am about 2.80 ft^3.
2.)  Or as a very rough approximation you could consider a person to be
cylindrical in form and calculate the volume of the "cylinder" w/ an
effective diameter. (not so accurate)
3.)  Even better (but not too practical), if you have a 55 gallon barrel
 or equivalent ), and can fit in it, fill it with water.  Put yourself, or
subject in the barrel, completely submersing 100% of body.  Come out of the
barrel, trying to keep as much of the water dripping off of you into the
barrel as possible.  Measure the displaced water height and multiply by the
barrel cross section and theres your volume.

MEN VS. WOMEN:
Considering society as a whole, I would have to say that men are more
voluminous than women.  However, I have no scientific data to back this up
with, only experience.

RACIAL / WORLDWIDE:
Any answer here would be a pure guess so I shall leave it blank.

I hope this was helpful.

-Darin
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