Exploring biomechanics

by R. McNeill Alexander

Flying squirrels, snakes, hummingbirds, squid... These and many other members of the animal kingdom intrigue us by the distinctive ways in which they move. Scientists have learned much about the ways living things travel across the land, sea, and sky by applying to animal motion the same physical laws that govern the workings of machinery. In Exploring Biomechanics, R. McNeill Alexander combines zoology and physics to show how even the most puzzling methods of locomotion can be understood, at least in part, by applying basic principles of classical mechanics and engineering. Remarkably thorough in its coverage, Exploring Biomechanics examines the entire range of animal movements. Beginning with humans and other complex animals and ending with single-celled organisms, the book describes and illustrates how animals walk, run, and jump; crawl and climb; soar and fly; float and swim. Are insects crawling on the underside of leaves defying gravity? Are fleas really nature's premier jumpers?