What's with the Waddle? |
http://www.sina.com.cn 2004/03/11 10:57 空中美语 |
语音讲解:
When a penguin walks, its tall, narrow body acts like a pendulum. Kinetic energy builds up with each step the bird takes. As the penguin takes its next step, that kinetic energy isn’t wasted, but instead helps carry the bird forward. The kinetic energy is what causes penguins to sway forwards and backwards, and from side to side. Much like a bowling pin that wobbles back and forth yet doesn’t fall, a penguin’s body is carried forward by kinetic energy. This highly functional walking style allows penguins to save roughly eighty percent of the mechanical energy they use while walking. While it is a certainty that waddling does burn a lot of calories, the penguins actually save energy in the long run because kinetic energy helps to keep them moving forward. So before laughing the next time you observe a penguin walking, remember that waddling isn’t just for the birds. In fact, it far more efficient than your own way of walking! |
每月一问:企鹅走路摇摆有理?(下) |
企鹅行走时,其高瘦的体型就像个钟摆在晃动。企鹅每走一步,动能便随之累积。当它每跨出一步时动能不但没有被浪费掉,反而有助于企鹅继续向前移动。动能就是引起它们前后晃动、左右摇摆的原因。企鹅的身体非常类似一个来回摇摆却不会倒下的保龄球瓶,被动能带动向前。 这种相当实用的行走方式让企鹅在行走中节省了大约80%的机械能。尽管摇摆行走会燃烧掉大量卡路里是个不争的事实,但企鹅终究还是能藉此节省能量,因为这当中所产生的动能有助于带动他们的身体向前移动。所以下次当你看到企鹅走路而发笑时,要记住,这样的摇摆走法并非毫无目的。事实上,这种走法远比你自己的走路方式效率高多了! |
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