Structure and Forces: Function, Form and Loads

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following best describes the relationship between the form and function of a structure?

  • The function dictates the form, but the form does not influence the function.
  • The form of a structure is irrelevant to its function.
  • The form of a structure is often designed to support or enhance its intended function. (correct)
  • The form and function are independent and coincidental aspects of a structure.

A bridge designed to withstand heavy traffic and strong winds would be an example of considering which types of loads?

  • Dead load, live load, and dynamic load (correct)
  • Dead load and live load only
  • Only dead load
  • Only live load

Which structural type is most suitable for a building needing large, unobstructed interior spaces, such as an aircraft hangar or a sports arena?

  • Shell structure
  • Frame structure (correct)
  • Combination structure
  • Solid structure

A dome is an example of what kind of structure, and how does its shape contribute to its strength?

<p>Shell structure; the curved shape distributes compressive forces. (D)</p>
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Why are combination structures frequently used in modern construction?

<p>They allow for optimization of different structural properties. (D)</p>
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Which of these scenarios primarily demonstrates a tension force acting on a structural component?

<p>A cable supporting a suspension bridge. (D)</p>
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How does understanding shear forces help in designing structures like bridges or buildings?

<p>It helps in avoiding the layers of material from sliding past each other. (C)</p>
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A wooden beam supported at both ends is subjected to a load in the middle. Which type of internal force is most likely to cause it to bend and potentially fail?

<p>Shear (C)</p>
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When an architect designs a building to withstand earthquakes, what type of load is the architect primarily concerned with?

<p>Dynamic load (C)</p>
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What combination of forces is primarily resisted by the legs of a table when someone places a heavy object on it?

<p>Compression only (D)</p>
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How does the shape of an airplane wing relate to its function of generating lift?

<p>The curved upper surface reduces air pressure above the wing. (B)</p>
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In the context of structural engineering, what is the main difference between external and internal forces?

<p>External forces act on the outside of an object, while internal forces act within the object. (C)</p>
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A metal rod is twisted using a wrench. Which type of stress is primarily induced in the rod?

<p>Torsion (C)</p>
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How might engineers use combination structures to build a high-rise building that can withstand strong winds and earthquakes?

<p>By integrating a frame structure for flexibility with a shell structure for overall rigidity. (A)</p>
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What is the most crucial factor that differentiates a 'live load' from a 'dead load' in structural engineering?

<p>Live loads are movable and variable, whereas dead loads are static. (C)</p>
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Why are shell structures, like arches and domes, effective in withstanding compressive forces?

<p>They distribute the force through the entire structure. (D)</p>
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Which of the following structural designs would be most suitable for withstanding torsion forces?

<p>A hollow cylindrical shaft. (A)</p>
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A structure is designed to withstand both heavy static loads and sudden dynamic impacts. Which approach would be most effective?

<p>Combining rigid materials for static loads with flexible joints for impact absorption. (A)</p>
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During the construction of a skyscraper, what is the primary reason for carefully managing both external and internal forces?

<p>To maintain structural integrity and prevent collapse. (A)</p>
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How does the concept of 'function' apply when selecting materials for a bridge in a cold climate?

<p>The materials must withstand freezing temperatures and ice expansion. (D)</p>
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Flashcards

Function of a structure

The purpose or task a structure serves.

Form of a structure

The shape or design of a structure.

Solid structure

A structure made of a single, solid piece of material.

Frame structure

A structure made of connected beams or parts that form a skeleton.

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Shell structure

A structure with a thin outer layer that encloses and protects what's inside.

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Combination structure

A structure that combines two or more types of structures.

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Dead load

The weight of the structure itself.

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Live load

The weight of people, furniture, or other movable objects in a structure.

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Dynamic load

Forces from wind, earthquakes, or other moving sources.

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Tension

A stretching force.

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Compression

A squeezing force.

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Torsion

A twisting force.

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Shear

A force that causes layers of a material to slide past each other.

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External forces

Forces that act on the outside of an object.

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Internal forces

Forces that act within an object.

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Study Notes

  • A structure's function is its intended purpose or the job it is designed to perform.
  • The form of a structure relates to its shape, design, and overall appearance.
  • A solid structure is constructed from a single, continuous piece of material.
  • Frame structures rely on interconnected beams or parts, forming a skeletal framework.
  • Shell structures feature a thin outer layer, providing enclosure and protection for the contents within.
  • Combination structures integrate two or more structural types into a single design.
  • Dead load refers to the structure's own weight, which it must support permanently.
  • Live load includes the weight of occupants, furniture, and other movable items within a structure.
  • Dynamic loads result from forces like wind, earthquakes, or other moving sources.
  • Tension is a stretching force that pulls on a material, potentially elongating it.
  • Compression is a squeezing force that presses inward on a material, potentially compacting it.
  • Torsion is a twisting force that acts on a material, causing it to rotate.
  • Shear is a force that causes layers within a material to slide past one another.
  • External forces are those that act on an object from the outside.
  • Internal forces are those that act within the object itself, resisting external forces.

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