Can You Escape a Wooden Coffin Buried 3/4 Feet Deep?
Introduction
Imagine being buried alive with only 9 inches of earth on top. Could you possibly muster enough strength to fight your way out of a weak wooden coffin? In this detailed analysis, we'll explore the feasibility of escape from such a dire situation, using an approach that's not too complex for a high school physics student.
The Burial Scenario
Let's start by understanding the burial scenario. If you were buried only 3/4 feet (which is 9 inches) deep and in a weak wooden coffin, we can explore the potential for escape considering the weight of the earth above and the strength required to break through the coffin.
Assumptions and Calculations
Firstly, it's important to note that even a small burial like this isn't likely to be done maliciously. The person likely did not invest much effort into burying you. The soil they used is presumably top soil, which is lighter and more easily spread than dense grave soil.
Weight of the Burial Soil
Top soil weighs approximately 96 pounds per cubic foot or about 1.5 grams per cubic centimeter. Given that the casket's top dimensions are 84 inches by 28 inches, with a depth of 9 inches, we can calculate the total weight of the soil on top of the casket.
Simplified Calculation:
21168 cubic inches of dirt (84 x 28 x 9 inches). Converting to cubic centimeters, we multiply by (2.54)^3 (since 1 inch 2.54 cm):
21168 x (2.54)^3 346880 cubic centimeters
Weight of the dirt: 346880 x 1.5 grams 520320 grams or approximately 1150 pounds.
Escape Consideration
With such a significant weight above you, the first question is, can you even lift a fraction of that weight? Even if the coffin were weak, breaking through a thickness of 9 inches of earth, compounded by the weight, would be a monumental task.
You'd need to lift thousands of pounds of dirt, and the structural integrity of even a weak coffin would make it extremely difficult to breach. Additionally, being in such a confined space, you would be severely compromised in terms of oxygen and water.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the scenario presents a formidable challenge. Even with a weak wooden coffin, the weight and nature of the dirt above would make escape almost impossible under these conditions.
Seek Professional Help
If you or someone you know is experiencing any panic or distress due to this scenario, please seek professional help immediately.