London, Jun 13 (IANS): Based on his range of superpowers, Superman could be the best-equipped comic book superhero of all with abilities like the 'Super Flare' attack and possession of high density muscle tissue, suggests a student-led research conducted over a period of seven years.
Students at the University of Leicester have been using simple calculations to determine whether or not the seemingly superhuman abilities used by the famous characters in films and comic books are in fact possible.
According to a series of studies published between 2009-2016 in the university's Journal of Physics Special Topics and Journal of Interdisciplinary Science Topics, Superman, if obeying the 'Law of Energy Conservation', could exhibit a calculated stored solar energy output of 7.07x105 Joules per second for his 'Super Flare' attack.
Created by DC Entertainment, the 'Man of Steel', in theory, could have higher density muscle tissue than the average human which could aid in several of his superhuman abilities.
This incredible display of power makes Superman the number one candidate for 'most powerful superhero'.
DC Entertainment celebrates June 12 as 'Superman Day'.
Based on their special powers, Marvel's Wolverine, Thor and Mystique are also in the upper-tier of superheroes -- having accelerated regenerative abilities, high energy output and being capable of gene manipulation.
The student-led research also sheds light on who the most ill-equipped superhero might be. Calculations suggest Batman would struggle to survive a landing after gliding due to the velocity of his movement.
Though his cape proves to be a vital utility when gliding in comic and media depictions, the research suggests that when gliding Batman reaches velocities of around 80km/hr -- which could be fatal upon landing.
This inability to perform even the simplest of superhero feats suggest Batman would struggle to get off the ground, let alone save Gotham from the likes of The Joker and Bane.
The release of DC and Warner Brothers Pictures' "Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice" and Marvel Cinematic Studio's "Captain America: Civil War" has proven 2016 to be the year of superhero face-offs.