Superheroes, like everything in the world, have also had their own evolution over the years. They became famous at the beginning of the 20th century and Whether in comics, cinema or television, they maintain their reign. However, they have also undergone changes to be updated.
For years, we’ve seen them perform fantastic feats and star in epic stories. The central characteristic of superheroes lies in their superhuman powers, as well as his unwavering will to fight for law and justice. But to what extent are these beyond-human capabilities realistic or consistent with science?
Not everyone is the same
In the world of superheroes, there are different levels of realism. Characters like Batman or iron man They depend primarily on their iron will and a series of devices or technological advances. Others, however, like Superman, possess powers that completely defy the laws of nature.
Superman is able to fly, simply by wishing. It does not require any accessories or body modifications to achieve this. Likewise, he possesses quite enormous strength, which allows him to lift objects hundreds of times heavier than himself, with one hand. Although these powers are very striking, they have no basis in real life..
A similar example is that of the “Giant Man”, who can increase his body size disproportionately. This would be impossible in the real world, due to the “square-cube law”.. Thus, if this being grew ten times, its weight would increase a thousand times, but its bones would only be a hundred times stronger. The bones couldn’t support all this extra weight.
Another notable example is “Flash”, the superhero who reaches astronomical speeds when he moves. If we look at it from the point of view of science, yes Flash I could run at this speed, colossal amounts of energy would have to be consumed in the form of food to survive. His abilities are therefore completely improbable.
The most realistic superheroes
As we have already indicated, Batman is a much more realistic character. This hero bases his abilities on excellent physical training and the use of advanced technologies, but he does not possess any supernatural powers. In fact, much of his appeal comes from that, since he practically represents an ordinary person achieving great feats.
Another superhero interestingly combines the laws of nature and realism is spider man. This character obtained his powers from the bite of a radioactive spider. It is unlikely that this gave him any special abilities, based on a supposed genetic mutation.
However, Spider-Man’s ability to stick to surfaces relies on a principle visible in geckos. These are reptiles that have microscopic structures on their legs, which allow them to attach to different surfaces. In fact, scientists have designed materials with this property. It is therefore not a “far-fetched” power.
Likewise, the scenes in which Spider-Man appears swinging on his spider web, between building structures, are not far-fetched. Spider web is one of the strongest materials available, even stronger than steel.. This image is therefore plausible.
Superheroes and science
Although the superpowers of many superheroes are a subject of fiction, the truth is that Thanks to them, it is possible to understand certain principles of physics, biology and science. in general. In fact, they could represent a unique opportunity to present scientific concepts in a fun and accessible way.
Some powers to comment
superhuman speed
Flash, one of the fastest superheroes, raises an interesting question about human speed. Science has shown that the maximum speed of a human being It is determined by factors such as genetics and physiology. Research in biomechanics suggests that although it is unlikely that anyone will achieve blazing speed, athletic abilities can be improved through proper training and techniques. However, Einstein’s theory of relativity reminds us that speed has physical limits in the universe.
Telepathy and telekinesis
Can reading minds or moving objects with the mind These are skills that many superheroes possess, such as Jean Gray in X-Men. However, until now, science has not found any evidence confirming the existence of these abilities. Neuroscience has made progress in understanding the human brain, but telepathic communication and mental manipulation remain concepts closer to fiction than reality.
Immunity and rapid healing
The ability to heal quickly, as Wolverine does, is a concept that has captured the imagination of many. Science has made advances in understanding the immune system and cellular regeneration. Research in regenerative medicine and gene therapy is progressing and perhaps one day it will be possible to improve our healing abilities.
Although most superpowers defy common sense and scientific logicsuperheroes remind us that science, like fiction, is full of possibilities.
Recommended Reading
The evolution of the concept of superhero
Socio-historical evolution of superhero cinema
