explain the mechanics of walking?

Answer 1

http://www.rubberbug.com/walking.htm which was cited by another answer is a great source for describing the mechanics of walking. But it does not do well in describing the physics of walking.

All the fundamental laws of basic physics are involved in walking. The conservation of energy, Newton's big three based on inertia, and even his gravity law are involved in walking.

Conservation of energy...TE = PE + KE + WE; where total energy is made up of potential energy, kinetic energy, and work energy (or just work if you prefer). Your total energy is conserved while walking. The potential energy is the biochemical potential of your muscles and frame, which is converted by work into kinetic energy, which is the walking part.

Newt's big three...If you are standing still, you need to invoke your TE to create a force to push off with your feet. You need that force because the 1st law says your body is lazy and won't move unless pushed. But once you get going you can reduce that force a bit because his law also says once you get going your body wants to keep going. In fact, if you want to stop, you'll need to exert some force to do that.

And where does the force come from...from the equal but opposite law by Newt. As you push off your foot takes advantage of the static friction between the cement and your shoe sole that creates an opposite force for your shoe to push against. And as that force pushes you forward in your gait work (WE) is being done.

Of course, during this walk, you are constantly battling the forces of gravity. You have to maintain your balance, which takes a bit of effort, but through years of practice, since you were about 6 months to a year old, you find rather easy to do.

As this is the physics category, I thought a bit more of physics should be mentioned. It's not all mechanical when walking.

Answer 2

firstly, static friction acts on our legs while walking as while walking the leg which is in contact with the ground is in rest while the 2nd one moves through the air. coming to action-reaction forces, our heels land first thereby inviting a normal reaction on heels which helps in raising the heels and also pushing us forward.

Answer 3

you put one foot in front of the other, repeatedly to get to your destination.

Answer 4

check this out