This is the same study guide that you have in your Course Packet. The answers are in red.

Building the Great Pyramid

Khufu's/Cheop's Pyramid, Giza

Built by slaves or paid workers? Paid workers.
Approx. number of stone blocks: 2.3 million.
Average weight of each block: 2 1/2 tons.
Weight of heaviest block: 15 tons.
Joints between the blocks: 1/50 of an inch.
Tools used to cut the blocks: Copper and stone tools.
Methods for moving the blocks: 1. Barges to float stone across the Nile from quarries on eastern side.
2. Stones on wooden sleds atop log rollers.
Wheel used for transporting blocks? No.
Method for raising the blocks into place: Temporary ramps.
Original height: 481 feet.
Today's height: 451 feet.
Area covered: 13 acres.
Length of each side at base: 755 feet.
Orientation of sides: Toward the four compass points.
Facing material: Polished limestone.
Estimated time to finish the pyramid: 23 years (average life span was 35 years).
Napoleon's scientists calculated that with the stones from the three Giza pyramids, a wall could be built around all of France that would be 1 ft. wide and 12 ft. high.

[Top of Page]