Enter the length of a specific bone and the appropriate multiplier into the calculator to estimate the body height. This method is commonly used in forensic anthropology and archaeology.
Bone Length to Body Height Formula
The following formula is used to estimate the body height from bone length.
BH = BL * M
Variables:
- BH is the estimated body height (cm)
- BL is the length of the bone (cm)
- M is the multiplier specific to the bone and population being studied
To estimate body height, multiply the length of the bone by the appropriate multiplier for that bone and population.
What is Bone Length to Body Height Estimation?
Bone length to body height estimation is a technique used in forensic anthropology to estimate the height of an individual based on the length of their long bones, such as the femur, tibia, or humerus. This method relies on established correlations between bone length and overall body height, which are typically derived from population-specific data. It is a valuable tool in forensic cases and archaeological studies where only skeletal remains are available.
How to Calculate Body Height from Bone Length?
The following steps outline how to estimate the Body Height from Bone Length.
- First, measure the length of the bone (BL) in centimeters.
- Next, determine the appropriate multiplier (M) for the bone and population.
- Use the formula from above = BH = BL * M.
- Finally, calculate the estimated Body Height (BH) in centimeters.
- After inserting the variables and calculating the result, check your answer with the calculator above.
Example Problem :
Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.
Bone Length (BL) = 48 cm
Multiplier (M) for the femur = 2.3
