6.16.1. Peak Ground Acceleration (PGA)

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does PGA stand for?

   Hint

   Think of the first letters of the words describing what happens during an earthquake.

2. 2.

   Why is PGA important in structural engineering?

   Hint

   Consider how movement affects buildings.

3. 3.

   What does the acronym PGA stand for?

   • Peak Ground Acceleration
   • Peak Ground Articulation
   • Primary Ground Acceleration

   Hint

   Think about what the words mean together!

4. 4.

   True or False: Higher PGA values can lead to lower inertial forces on structures.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider the relationship between ground movement and building forces.

5. 5.

   Using the data from an earthquake that registered a PGA of 0.7g on a 2000 kg structure, calculate the maximum inertial force exerted on it.

   Hint

   Convert g to m/s² before calculating.

6. 6.

   Critique the potential designs of a building in a high-PGA zone versus a low-PGA zone. What considerations must be made?

   Hint

   Consider structural needs versus material choices based on seismic risk.