At what height can you not breathe?

The altitude where humans cannot breathe for an extended time is generally around 8,000 meters (26,000 feet). This is also known as the "death zone."

Understanding the Death Zone

The "death zone" is a term used to describe altitudes above 8,000 meters where the atmospheric pressure drops significantly, leading to an insufficient amount of oxygen to sustain human life for any extended period. At these heights, the oxygen level is so low that it requires supplemental oxygen for humans to survive.

Key Factors Contributing to Oxygen Deprivation

• Low Atmospheric Pressure: At 8,000 meters, the atmospheric pressure is less than 356 millibars. This reduced pressure means that there is less oxygen available to be absorbed into the lungs and blood.
• Hypoxia: The decreased oxygen levels lead to hypoxia, a condition where the body does not receive enough oxygen. This can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Fatigue
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Loss of consciousness
• Extended Exposure: Prolonged exposure to altitudes above the death zone without supplemental oxygen can result in severe organ damage and death.

Practical Implications

The death zone poses serious challenges for mountaineers and explorers.

• Supplemental Oxygen: Climbing at these altitudes requires the use of supplemental oxygen tanks and specialized gear.
• Acclimatization: Climbers need to ascend slowly to allow their bodies to acclimatize to the lower oxygen levels gradually. However, above 8000 meters acclimatization does not occur without extreme risks.
• Risks: Even with precautions, the risks of climbing in the death zone are high, and even experienced climbers can face life-threatening situations.

Summary Table