Which mechanism allowed Roman torsion siege engines to achieve high projectile velocities?

💡 Explanation

When rapidly twisting ropes made of sinew or hair, torsional stress stores elastic potential energy due to the material's resistance to deformation. When released, this stored energy rapidly converts to kinetic energy, resulting in catapult action. Therefore, high projectile velocity is achieved through rope twisting, rather than steam, levers, or momentum wheels that were not part of the mechanism.

• Which mechanism limited the distance Roman torsion siege engines, like the ballista, could accurately launch projectiles?
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• Which risk increased when iron became widely used in Roman siege engine construction, compared to bronze?
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