Textbooks today are becoming larger than they use to be. This is because they are containing a lot more diagrams, charts, and illustrations.
How much does a textbook weigh today?
The average weight of an individual physics textbook is just over 4.5 pounds (2.04 kg).
Physics and science textbooks tend to be heavier than those of history and geography as there is a need for more illustrations and charts.
The average high school student will carry a bag with textbooks weighing around 16 to 20 pounds (7.25 to 9.07 kg).
This is according to a study carried out by the California Board of Education in 2004.
It is in the 11th grade when the student is carrying the most amount of weight. The weight of the books combined will peak at around 20 pounds.
That is a good amount of weight to be toting around throughout the day.
Chiropractors have expressed concern over the amount of weight that children are carrying on a daily basis. They hear many complaints from children about neck and back pain.
Currently, there is a movement towards digital textbooks as they cost considerably less than paper textbooks and are more environmentally friendly. Not to mention much lighter in weight!
~ Fun Fact ~
Did you know that the most banned books in the USA are Harry Potter books? This is due to religious complaints.
Resources
https://arts-literature.blurtit.com/81830/what-is-the-average-weight-of-a-textbook-
https://redwoodbark.org/29130/opinion/text-heavy-hidden-weight-paper-textbook-use/
https://hypertextbook.com/facts/2003/BettyTan.shtml