The relation between packing geometry and force network statistics is studied for granular media. Based on simulations of two-dimensional packings of Hertzian spheres, we develop a geometrical framework relating the distribution of interparticle forces $P\left(f\right)$ to the weight distribution $\mathcal{P}\left(w\right)$, which is measured in experiments. We apply this framework to reinterpret recent experimental data on strongly deformed packings and suggest that the observed changes of $\mathcal{P}\left(w\right)$ are dominated by changes in contact network while $P\left(f\right)$ remains relatively unaltered. We furthermore investigate the role of packing disorder in the context of the $q$ model and address the question of how force fluctuations build up as a function of the distance beneath the top surface.

• Received 9 October 2003

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevE.70.011301