EXS 587 – Advanced Biomechanics

Fall 2007
Dr. Moran

Assignment Topic: Anthropometry

Date: October 16, 2007

Due: October 23, 2007

1.) Calculate the average body density of a young adult whose height is 1.58 m and whose mass is
73.5 kg.

2.) For the adult in question 1, determine the density of the forearm and use it to estimate the mass of
the forearm that measures 24.0 cm from the ulnar styloid to the elbow axis. Circumference measures
(in cm) taken at 1-cm intervals starting at the wrist are:
20.1
20.3
20.5
20.7
20.9
21.2
21.5
21.9
22.5
23.2
23.9
24.6
25.1
25.7
26.4
27.0
27.5
27.9
28.2
28.4
28.3
28.2
28.0
Assuming the forearm to have a circular cross-sectional area over its length, calculate the volume of
the forearm and its mass. Compare the mass as calculated with that estimated using averaged
anthropometric data (Table 3.1 handout in class). Do the values compare? Cite differences why they
may not. Show all work.

3.) Calculate the center of mass of the forearm along its long axis and give its distance from the elbow
axis. Compare that with the center of mass as determined from Table 3.1.

4.) Calculate the moment of inertia of the forearm about the elbow axis. Then calculate its radius of
gyration about the elbow and compare with the value calculated from Table 3.1.

5.) From assignment #2 - re-download the video of a vertical jump

(a) Calculate the left leg and left thigh segment masses assuming that the subject total mass is
68 kg as estimated from Table 3.1
(b) Calculate both segment's center of mass and draw in this location using MS Paint.