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arXiv:1206.0946physics.pop-ph

Roman Dodecahedron as dioptron: analysis of freely available data

Amelia Carolina Sparavigna

Abstract

Recently I have proposed the Roman Dodecahedra as ancient coincidence rangefinders. Here I discuss several data and references freely available on the Web. After analysis, the common features of these artifacts allow to tell that a Roman Dodecahedron was probably a dioptron. The equation of this optical instrument is given. The paper ends with a discussion on the role of the Web and free information for further studies of these objects.

arXiv comments
Key-words: Rangefinders, Dioptron, Dioptra, Roman dodecahedron, Dodecaedre boulete, Pentagondodekaeder,Layout after revision of misprints
Journal reference
DOI
Subjects
physics.pop-phPopular Physics

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Discussed in comments2 threads

  1. Roman dodecahedron: 12-sided object has baffled archaeologists for centuries 1 comment

    • Not being standardized doesn't necessarily rule out being a measuring tool. They could've each been crafted for a specific purpose, but using the same technique for measuring. Would be nice if there were a database of precise measurements of those discovered so far. The paper…

      sparkieView on HNParent context

  2. Another Roman dodecahedron has been unearthed in England 1 comment

    • Furthermore this article only states: “They are not of a standard size, so will not be measuring devices.", which is incorrect since for use as a coincidence rangefinder (standardized to some standard) only the ratios between sizes of opposite holes would need to be…

      bondarchukView on HNParent context

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