Stef Mientki <S.Mientki <at> ru.nl> writes:

> I wonder if this phenomena was already known at the year 0 

Certain kinds of asphalt (bitumen) mixed with natural fibers have similar
properties afaik. The asphalt used to cover roads has the same properties when
not mixed with additives, but it is much more viscous (e.g. a metal sponson
would sink in after a while but a man would not). Somebody may have walked into
such a puddle in year 0.

As to how long it takes to flow (the pitch) under its own weight, here is a drop
that took 9 years to fall:

  http://www.physics.uq.edu.au/pitchdrop/pitchdrop.shtml

Peter


-- 
http://www.piclist.com PIC/SX FAQ & list archive
View/change your membership options at
http://mailman.mit.edu/mailman/listinfo/piclist