The Igloo and the Natural Bridge as Ultimate Structures

Authors

  • Richard L. Handy

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14430/arctic2926

Keywords:

Long-tailed Jaegers

Abstract

The Eskimo snow igloo is not a hemisphere as frequently depicted, but a catenoid of revolution with an optimum height-to-diameter ratio. This shape eliminates ring tension and shell moments and therefore prevents failure by caving or bulging. Rainbow Natural Bridge, Utah, is a catenary, probably because of weathering along the trajectory of maximum compressive stress.

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Published

1973-01-01