2.1.2. Role of Mass in Structural Systems

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does inertia mean?

   Hint

   Think about how a parked car behaves when pushed.

2. 2.

   How does mass influence inertia forces?

   Hint

   Recall that F = m·a.

3. 3.

   What is the relationship between mass and inertia forces during an earthquake?

   • Higher mass results in lower inertia forces
   • Higher mass results in larger inertia forces
   • Mass does not affect inertia forces.

   Hint

   Think about the formula F = m·a.

4. 4.

   True or False: Reducing mass will always make a structure safer during an earthquake.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider the implications of design and balance.

5. 5.

   Design an earthquake-resistant structure with a total mass of 10,000 kg. Explain how you would manage mass distribution to minimize inertia forces.

   Hint

   Consider the design principles you've learned about stability.

6. 6.

   Calculate the inertia force for a structure with a mass of 8,000 kg subjected to an acceleration of 3 m/s². What considerations should be taken in designing this structure?

   Hint

   Use the formula F = m·a to compute the forces.