Topic 4A Notes - Forces, Loads & Stresses

Question 1

What is a force?

Answer 1

A push or a pull with a magnitude and a direction

Forces are fundamental to understanding how structures behave under various conditions.

Question 2

What are external forces on structures?

Answer 2

Stresses that act on a structure from outside

External forces can lead to internal forces within the materials of the structure.

Question 3

What is a dead load?

Answer 3

A permanent force acting on a structure

Examples include the weight of the structure itself and any fixed equipment.

Question 4

List a couple of examples of permanent forces.

Answer 4

• Weight of the structure
• Fixed equipment

These forces do not change over time.

Question 5

What is a live load?

Answer 5

A changing or non-permanent force acting on a structure

Live loads can vary based on usage, such as people or vehicles.

Question 6

What are some examples of temporary forces?

Answer 6

• Wind
• Snow
• People moving in and out

These forces can change frequently and affect the structure differently.

Question 7

What do compression forces do?

Answer 7

Crush a material by squeezing it together

Compression forces are critical in understanding how materials respond to loads.