Physics of the Human Body

by Richard P. McCall

Richard P. McCall's fascinating book explains how basic concepts of physics apply to the fundamental activities and responses of the human body, a veritable physics laboratory. Blood pumping through our veins is a vital example of Poiseuille flow; the act of running requires friction to propel the runner forward; and the quality of our eyesight demonstrates how properties of light enable us to correct near- and far-sightedness. Each chapter discusses a fundamental physics concept and relates it to the anatomy and physiology of applicable parts of the body. Topics include motion, fluids and pressure, temperature and heat, speech and hearing, electrical behaviors, optics, biological effects of radiation, and drug concentrations. Clear and compelling, with a limited amount of math, McCall's descriptions allow readers of all levels to appreciate the physics of the human physique. Physics of the Human Body will help curious high school students, undergraduates with medical aspirations, and practicing medical professionals understand more about the underlying physics principles of the human body.

311 pages, Paperback

First published April 26, 2010

Reviews

[Boaz Yang · Rating 4 out of 5]

fun approachable intro to basic physics concepts as they relate to human physiology, but can be somewhat inconsistent in its level of detail when discussing certain topics, making some things a little unclear for someone without any background in physics. didnt enjoy the last chapter much, but i just wasnt very invested in the math

[Allie Ford · Rating 3 out of 5]

As a trained physicist I was reading this mostly as a reminder of things I'd forgotten, and to see some different applications of physics. The book started well for a general audience, explaining ideas clearly and recapping from time to time (sometimes a few too many times!). Later on it suddenly started speeding up and glossing over points that confused me, so probably not ideal for those with no physics background. I found the use of American units annoying and distracting, but the author is based in the US so it's understandable.
I did learn some new things along the way. The final chapter about drug dosing, measurement and applications was fascinating and I want to learn more. Overall, a little inconsistent, but worth a read for anyone who wants to refresh their physics knowledge or gain some knowledge of basic science of the human body.
(My reading dates are a little off - I started reading this years ago, then lost it! I re-read it this year in about 2 weeks!)