3.2. Understanding Disaster Causes and Impact

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is the typical mortar mix ratio recommended for strength?

   Hint

   Think about how many parts of sand should accompany one part of cement.

2. 2.

   What design element can make buildings more vulnerable to winds?

   Hint

   Consider how wind interacts with building shapes.

3. 3.

   Which building design is more stable?

   • Asymmetrical design
   • Symmetrical design
   • Random design

   Hint

   Think about how symmetry affects balance.

4. 4.

   True or False: Row houses increase the risk of flood damage by creating wind tunnels.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider the flow of air around buildings.

5. 5.

   Design a community housing project in a flood-prone area. Detail your building choices and layout, emphasizing how they reduce disaster risk.

   Hint

   Think about local flooding patterns and how to build to avoid them.

6. 6.

   After analyzing a building's vulnerability, propose a retrofit plan that incorporates traditional materials and modern engineering techniques.

   Hint

   Reflect on the materials that are typically readily available in your region.