Which outcome occurred when the builders of medieval cathedrals exceeded the compressive strength limitations of their masonry?

💡 Explanation

Increased *lateral thrust* arises when masonry compressive strength is exceeded, because material yields under load, precipitating structural failure; therefore walls bow outward to relieve stress, rather than distributing load vertically, as required for stable construction.

• Which consequence resulted as Aztec chinampa systems became oversaturated with nutrients?
• Which limit was historically faced when highland Andean terraces were utilized to maximize maize yield?
• Which structural failure results when a Roman arch is constructed without adequate keystone support during initial assembly?
• Which failure arises when ancient bronze-smiths repeatedly cold work weapon edges without annealing?
• Which risk increases when wooden scaffolding used during ziggurat construction experiences repeated wetting and drying cycles?
• Which consequence results when incorrect positioning of Inca stone masonry?