Structures+Forces Flashcards

(30 cards)

1
Q

What is the difference between mass and weight?

A

Mass is the amount of matter in an object; weight is the force exerted by gravity on that mass

Weight can change depending on the gravitational pull of the planet, while mass remains constant.

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2
Q

How will your weight change if you travel to the moon?

A

Your weight will decrease due to the moon’s lower gravitational pull

Weight changes on different celestial bodies due to varying gravity.

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3
Q

What units would be used to measure mass?

A
  • Kilograms
  • Grams

Mass is typically measured in kilograms or grams.

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4
Q

What units would be used to measure weight?

A
  • Newtons
  • Pounds

Weight is commonly measured in newtons or pounds.

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5
Q

Which scientist was first credited with the idea of gravity?

A

Sir Isaac Newton

Newton’s work laid the foundation for classical mechanics.

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6
Q

How does a triple beam balance work?

A

It measures mass by balancing an object against known weights

The balance uses three beams with sliding weights to determine mass.

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7
Q

What are the three classifications of structures we discussed?

A
  • Solid structures
  • Frame structures
  • Shell structures

Each classification has unique characteristics and applications.

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8
Q

Identify pros (good things) and cons (bad things) about each type of structure.

A
  • Solid structures: Pros - strong; Cons - heavy
  • Frame structures: Pros - lightweight; Cons - less stable
  • Shell structures: Pros - efficient; Cons - complex to design

Each structure type has its advantages and disadvantages.

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9
Q

Give examples of all three types of structures.

A
  • Solid structures: walls
  • Frame structures: bridges
  • Shell structures: domes

These examples illustrate the diversity of structural types.

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10
Q

What four main parts do designers need to consider when building a structure?

A
  • Function
  • Aesthetics
  • Safety
  • Cost

These factors are crucial for effective design.

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11
Q

List the different functions a structure can fulfill.

A
  • Support
  • Shelter
  • Transportation
  • Storage

Structures serve various purposes in society.

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12
Q

Why must designers consider: Aesthetics, Safety, Cost, Types of Materials?

A

To ensure the structure is appealing, safe, affordable, and functional

These considerations impact the overall success of the design.

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13
Q

What different types of joints can be chosen?

A
  • Mobile joints
  • Rigid joints

The choice of joints affects the flexibility and stability of a structure.

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14
Q

Why would you choose mobile joints or rigid joints?

A
  • Mobile joints: allow movement
  • Rigid joints: provide stability

The choice depends on the structural requirements.

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15
Q

Describe the 5 forces: Tension, Torsion, Compression, Bending, and Shearing.

A
  • Tension: pulling force
  • Torsion: twisting force
  • Compression: pushing force
  • Bending: force causing curvature
  • Shearing: force causing layers to slide

Understanding these forces is essential for structural integrity.

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16
Q

Identify at least 5 examples of each type of force.

A
  • Tension: tugging a rope, stretching a rubber band
  • Torsion: twisting a bottle cap, wringing out a cloth
  • Compression: pressing a spring, stacking books
  • Bending: bending a ruler, arching a bridge
  • Shearing: cutting paper, sliding a deck of cards

Examples help illustrate how forces act in real-world scenarios.

17
Q

What is the difference between external and internal forces?

A
  • External forces: act on a structure from outside
  • Internal forces: act within the structure

Understanding these forces is crucial for analyzing structural stability.

18
Q

What types of forces can cause a structure to fail?

A
  • Overloading
  • Natural disasters
  • Material fatigue
  • Design flaws

Identifying these forces helps in designing safer structures.

19
Q

How can we help structures survive?

A
  • Proper design
  • Regular maintenance
  • Use of quality materials

These strategies enhance the longevity and safety of structures.

20
Q

Why are arches difficult to build?

A

They require precise calculations and materials to support the load

The complexity of arches makes them challenging in construction.

21
Q

Describe Cantilever, Suspension, and Stayed Cable Bridges.

A
  • Cantilever: supported at one end
  • Suspension: hangs from cables
  • Stayed Cable: supported by cables attached to towers

Each bridge type has unique structural characteristics.

22
Q

How do corrugations help a structure?

A

They increase strength while reducing weight

Corrugated materials are often used in construction for efficiency.

23
Q

What types of hollow beams can reduce weight and cost of a building design?

A
  • I-beams
  • Box beams

Hollow beams are effective in minimizing material use while maintaining strength.

24
Q

What would designers use flying buttresses for?

A

To support walls and distribute weight

Flying buttresses are commonly used in Gothic architecture.

25
What types of **materials** can help a structure use **friction**?
* Rubber * Textured surfaces ## Footnote Friction is essential for stability and safety in structures.
26
Explain how structures can **fail**.
Through excessive loads, material failure, or design errors ## Footnote Understanding failure mechanisms is crucial for safe design.
27
Why must designers consider a building’s **center of gravity**?
To ensure stability and prevent tipping ## Footnote The center of gravity affects how a structure responds to forces.
28
Why are **foundations** so important?
They support the entire structure and distribute loads to the ground ## Footnote A strong foundation is critical for structural integrity.
29
Explain the difference between **pilings** and **footings**.
* Pilings: deep foundations driven into the ground * Footings: shallow foundations that spread the load ## Footnote The choice depends on soil conditions and building requirements.
30
Explain **spin stabilization**.
A method to maintain orientation by spinning an object ## Footnote Spin stabilization is used in various engineering applications.