In this episode of "Because Science," the host investigates how much strength is required to wield the massive swords in the video game "Monster Hunter World." To do this, he teams up with prop maker Clint Kearney to create a life-size replica of the in-game sword, the Berserker sword. They estimate the density of the sword material to be around 1.3 grams per cubic centimeter, similar to keratin, and calculate its mass to be around 370 pounds.
Using the science of moments and rotational forces, they determine the center of mass of the sword to be about 3 feet away from the hilt, requiring around 1,500 Newton-meters of torque to hold it up, comparable to the Bugatti Veyron's engine. The host concludes that to wield such a massive sword, one would need to generate supercar-levels of torque with their human shoulders, elbows, and wrists, making it nearly impossible in reality.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. The Japanese kodachi is one of the longest swords in history, measuring about 1.5 meters in length.
2. The two-handed great sword is one of the bulkiest swords in history, weighing about 6.5 kilograms (15 pounds).
3. The density of keratin, a protein found in reptile scales and talons, is approximately 1.3 grams per cubic centimeter.
4. The Berserker sword from the Monster Hunter game is estimated to have a volume of 0.13 cubic meters (34 gallons).
5. The estimated mass of the Berserker sword is 170 kilograms (370 pounds).
6. The center of mass for the Berserker sword is approximately 1 meter (3 feet) away from where the rotational force is applied at the wrists.
7. The torque required to wield the Berserker sword is approximately 1500 Newton meters.
8. The Bugatti Veyron produces a torque of around 1500 Newton meters at its wheels.
9. To swing the Berserker sword, a person would need to generate supercar levels of torque at their shoulders, elbows, and wrists.