(5) If a triangular wedge of rupture is assumed, it follows inevitably that the unit pressure increases with the depth, and that the resultant acts at one-third of the height above the base. This follows because the total pressure then varies with the square of the height, as in water pressure.
(6) Let the contrary be assumed—that the pressure increases from the base upward—then, in a great depth of earth, the pressure at the top would be enormous enough to crush the hand if thrust in the earth. As everyone knows, the pressure on the hand is very slight, and this shows the absurdity of the hypothesis.
It may be stated now that the proposed experiment, referring to [Fig. 22], would not prove Mr. Meem’s contention. For, if the earth below
was removed, the thrust on
would have to be sufficient to prevent the whole mass,
, from descending, which is far greater than
