  We use in vivo measurements of swimming bacteria in an optical trap to
determine fundamental properties of bacterial propulsion. In particular, we
determine the propulsion matrix, which relates the angular velocity of the
flagellum to the torques and forces propelling the bacterium. From the
propulsion matrix dynamical properties such as forces, torques, swimming speed
and power can be obtained from measurements of the angular velocity of the
motor. We find significant heterogeneities among different individuals even
though all bacteria started from a single colony. The propulsive efficiency,
defined as the ratio of the propulsive power output to the rotary power input
provided by the motors, is found to be 0.2%.
