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← HistoryWhich problem complicated the logistics of Roman army ballistae during long campaigns far from supply lines?
A)Ox tendons degraded in humid climates✓
B)Bronze frames cracked under torsion
C)Iron bolts corroded rapidly if stored
D)Stone projectiles shattered upon impact
💡 Explanation
When ballistae were deployed in damp climates, the torsion springs made of tightly wound animal (typically ox) tendon would loosen and degrade due to humidity and microbial action, making them lose tension reducing the range and power. Therefore tendon degradation in humidity resulted, rather than frame cracking, bolt corrosion, or projectile shattering which were either less likely or easier to mitigate.
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