According to Ask Ai www.iAsk.ai:

Weight of a Human Head

The average human head weighs around 5 kg (11 lbs). This weight is comparable to that of a bowling ball and is supported by the cervical spine, which consists of seven vertebrae. The head’s weight can vary slightly among individuals, but over 98% of humans fall within the range of approximately 2.3 kg to 5 kg (5.1 lbs to 11.0 lbs).

When considering the effects of posture on the perceived weight of the head, it is important to note that tilting the head forward increases the strain on the neck significantly. For example, at a neutral position, the pressure on the neck is about 5 kg; however, if one tilts their head forward by 15 degrees, this pressure can increase to approximately 27 lbs (12.25 kg), and at a 60-degree angle, it can feel like as much as 60 lbs (27 kg). This increased load can lead to discomfort and pain in the neck and upper back due to prolonged periods spent in such positions.

Maintaining proper posture while using electronic devices is crucial for minimizing strain on the neck and preventing conditions such as “Text Neck,” which arises from looking down at mobile devices for extended periods.

In summary, while the average weight of a human head is 5 kg (11 lbs), its effective weight can increase dramatically depending on head position relative to the spine.

Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question:

Surgical Technology International
This journal publishes studies related to surgical techniques and technologies, providing insights into various medical fields including anatomy and biomechanics.

Human Anatomy Texts
Standard texts on human anatomy provide foundational knowledge about body structures including detailed descriptions of human head anatomy and associated weights.

Biomechanics Research Studies
Research studies focused on biomechanics analyze how forces interact with human bodies during various activities, contributing valuable data regarding head weight and its implications for posture and health.