A human sneeze can expel air and mucus from the nose and mouth at speeds of up to 100 miles per hour.
This forceful expulsion is a protective mechanism the body uses to clear irritants and infectious particles from the respiratory system. The power of a sneeze comes from the coordinated effort of muscles in the chest, diaphragm, and abdomen, which rapidly increase pressure in the lungs before releasing it through the nose and mouth.
Here's a breakdown of what contributes to the power:
- Speed: As stated, sneezes can reach speeds of approximately 100 mph.
- Distance: Droplets expelled during a sneeze can travel considerable distances, potentially spreading germs. This distance can vary depending on factors like the force of the sneeze and environmental conditions.
- Particle Size: Sneezes expel particles of various sizes, some of which can remain airborne for extended periods.
While the exact power of a sneeze isn't a quantifiable unit like horsepower, the speed and force with which it expels air and particles demonstrate its considerable power. Holding in a sneeze doesn't diminish the built-up pressure; it redirects it, potentially causing harm.
