Which mechanical consequence occurred impacting arches without sufficient keystone compression?

💡 Explanation

Increased shear stress within voussoirs occurs, because the keystone inadequately transmits compressive forces, instigating shear failures throughout the blocks due to uneven load distribution. Therefore, shear dominates locally, rather than a uniform compression occurring across the arch.

• Which risk dramatically increased in large Roman aqueducts when the internal hydrostatic pressure limits were breached?
• In the late Roman Empire, which consequence resulted from improperly heat-treating iron pilum tips?
• Which risk increased after medieval tanneries dumped waste into Roman aqueduct channels repurposed for water supply?
• Which outcome reduces aesthetic value due to sulfur exposure on sandstone containing embedded pietra dura?
• Which structural problem necessitated the development of concrete vaulted ceilings within Roman fortifications adjacent to the sea?
• During celestial navigation with an 18th-century sextant on a rolling ship, which consequence results from temporarily unleveling the instrument during a sight?