The unfinished obelisk in Aswan, Egypt, is a significant archaeological site that provides insight into ancient Egyptian quarrying techniques. The 'scooped' areas of the obelisk, particularly noted in the image provided, are of interest for their precision and scale.
Geological Analysis: The obelisk is carved from Aswan granite, a hard igneous rock composed primarily of quartz, feldspar, and mica. The hardness of the granite, with a Mohs hardness of approximately 6 to 7, suggests that any tools used would need to be significantly harder or employ a technique that does not rely on direct mechanical abrasion.
Known Ancient Machining Techniques: Historically, it is widely accepted that ancient Egyptians used dolerite balls to pound away at the granite, a process that could explain the scooped areas. This method, though labor-intensive, is supported by archaeological evidence of dolerite balls found at the site. The scooped areas could be the result of repeated impact, with each scoop being approximately 2 to 3 cm deep, indicative of the size of the dolerite balls used.
Hypothesized Advanced Techniques: The hypothesis of advanced antediluvian technologies, such as sonic or laser methods, lacks direct archaeological evidence at the site. Sonic technology would involve the use of sound waves to fracture the granite, a method not supported by any artifacts or historical records at the site. Laser technology, while theoretically possible, would leave distinct marks and thermal effects on the granite, which are not observed in the scooped areas.
Natural Erosion Processes: Natural erosion processes are unlikely to have contributed significantly to the scooped areas. The granite's hardness and the site's conditions do not favor rapid weathering or erosion that could mimic the precision seen in the obelisk's carvings.
Most Probable Method: Given the current evidence, the most probable method for the excavation of the scooped areas remains the use of dolerite balls for pounding. This method aligns with the archaeological findings and the physical characteristics of the granite. While the hypothesis of advanced technologies is intriguing, it lacks empirical support at this site.
Confidence Level and Error Margins: The confidence level in the dolerite ball method is high, with an estimated confidence of 90% based on archaeological evidence. The margin of error for this assessment is approximately ±5%, considering potential unknown variables or undiscovered evidence.
Historical Data and Established Theories: Historical records and established theories in Egyptology support the use of dolerite balls for quarrying granite, as documented in various scholarly works and supported by physical evidence at other ancient Egyptian quarries.
Further Research: Further geological and archaeological research could potentially refine our understanding of the techniques used. However, as of now, the available data and established research point towards traditional methods rather than advanced or antediluvian technologies.