Bystander said:
Water is small enough to get in and prevent the glass healing, so it promotes cracking by about 20%. Kerosene, (Paraffin oil), toughens the glass by about 20%, preventing the crack from running.Tom.G said:
The primary physics principle behind cutting brick or stone with a chisel is the concentration of force. When a chisel is struck with a hammer, the force is concentrated along the thin edge of the chisel, creating high pressure that can overcome the material's internal bonds, causing it to fracture and split along the desired line.
The angle of the chisel is crucial for effective cutting. A sharper angle can create a cleaner cut by concentrating the force more precisely, but it may also make the chisel more prone to damage. Conversely, a blunter angle can be more durable but may require more force to achieve the same cutting effect. The optimal angle balances these factors to ensure efficient and effective cutting.
The weight of the hammer is important because it determines the amount of force that can be applied to the chisel. A heavier hammer can deliver more force with each strike, making it easier to cut through tough materials. However, using a hammer that is too heavy can lead to less control and increased risk of damaging both the chisel and the material. The correct weight allows for effective force application while maintaining control and precision.
Material hardness significantly affects the cutting process. Harder materials require more force to cut because their atomic bonds are stronger and more difficult to break. The chisel itself must be made of a material that is harder than the brick or stone to ensure it can effectively concentrate force without deforming or dulling quickly. Understanding the hardness of both the tool and the material is essential for efficient cutting.
The technique of striking the chisel influences the precision and effectiveness of the cut. Consistent, controlled strikes help to evenly distribute force and create a clean break along the desired line. Striking at an angle or with uneven force can cause the material to crack unpredictably or damage the chisel. Proper technique involves holding the chisel at the correct angle and delivering firm, even strikes to achieve the best results.