Energy of a human climbing up stairs

In summary, according to the conversation, the efficiency of humans to climb stairs is typically 20-30%, with 25% being the usual range quoted. This is considered very efficient for an engine, but can only be achieved by climbing at a fast pace of around 50 steps per minute. The formula for calculating the change in potential energy is also mentioned.
  • #1
lynnfauzee
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Homework Statement


According to the "internet", the efficiency of humans to climb stairs is about 25%. How much energy does a person weighing 80kg use to climb from the 4 flights (12.95m total) floor of the von Haast building?

Homework Equations


change in potential energy of a system is = mg(zfinal-zinitial)

The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
How much times the change in potential energy does the human need, if one quarter of his work will become potential energy?
Hope this helped.
 
  • #3
Welcome to PF;
Do you know what "efficiency" means?
Where did you get the 25% figure?

It is consistent with textbooks - at 20-30% being the usual range quoted.
That is very efficient for an engine... though you only get that by climbing fastish: about 50 or so steps per min.
(Textbook of Work Physiology: Physiological Bases of Exercise p69, 2003 by Per-Olof Åstrand et al.)
 

Related to Energy of a human climbing up stairs

1. How does the energy of a human climbing up stairs compare to other physical activities?

The energy required for a human to climb up stairs is relatively high compared to other physical activities. This is because climbing stairs involves lifting the body weight against gravity, which requires a significant amount of energy.

2. What type of energy is used when a human climbs up stairs?

The primary type of energy used when climbing up stairs is mechanical energy. This is the energy that is produced by the movement of the muscles and is used to lift the body against gravity.

3. Does the energy required to climb up stairs vary depending on weight?

Yes, the energy required to climb up stairs does vary depending on weight. The heavier the person, the more energy is needed to lift their body weight against gravity. This is why climbing stairs can be more challenging for individuals who are overweight.

4. How does the fitness level of a person affect the energy needed to climb up stairs?

The fitness level of a person can greatly affect the energy needed to climb up stairs. Individuals who are physically fit and have strong muscles will require less energy to climb stairs compared to those who are out of shape and have weaker muscles.

5. Is there a way to conserve energy while climbing up stairs?

Yes, there are ways to conserve energy while climbing up stairs. One way is to take smaller and more frequent steps, which requires less energy compared to taking larger steps. Additionally, using the handrail can also help distribute the weight and reduce the amount of energy needed to lift the body up the stairs.

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