New Scientist - 19 April 2010
- The Astounding Limits of Endurance
We have an irrepressible urge to push our boundaries and set records. How much further can we go, physically and mentally, before we reach our ultimate limits? - What's the human speed limit?
Usain Bolt has run 100 metres in 9.58 seconds. Could he go any faster? - How long can we concentrate for?
Thinking is hard work. How long does it take for our brains to need a break? - How long could you survive a vacuum?
It's every astronaut's worst nightmare – but does losing pressure really mean your head will explode? - How much can we remember?
Chao Lu has accurately recited 67,890 digits of pi from memory – but even that only hints at the brain's true capacity. - How cold can you get and live?
Extreme cold can endanger your life – or save it. - How long could you survive without food or drink?
The devil's in the detail of water and vitamins. - How long can you go without sleep?
Rats that are kept awake die after two weeks. You probably wouldn't make it that long. - How many gs can you pull?
If roller coasters hold no fears for you, you may be a g monster. - How high can you go?
Could you climb Everest without taking extra oxygen with you? - How much can a human lift?
Andy Bolton managed 457.5 kilograms – can the human frame take any more? - How much radiation can we take?
The gruesome story of an unfortunate scrap dealer's glow-in-the-dark keepsake. - How long could you hold your breath?
Stephane Misfud managed 11 minutes and 35 seconds – but such feats take their toll.