14.6.2. Stiffness Variation

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is stiffness in structural terms?

   Hint

   Think about how easily a material can bend or yield.

2. 2.

   What effect does increased stiffness have on natural frequency?

   Hint

   Recall the relationship between stiffness and vibration.

3. 3.

   How does increased stiffness affect natural frequency?

   • Decreases it
   • Increases it
   • Has no effect

   Hint

   Remember the basic relationship between stiffness and frequency.

4. 4.

   True or False: Stiff buildings are always more vulnerable to damage during earthquakes.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider the design factors involved.

5. 5.

   Consider a scenario where a city's building codes were not updated after a significant seismic event. Discuss the potential consequences regarding stiffness variations and practical steps to address these issues.

   Hint

   Reflect on real-world examples of building failures and mitigation strategies.

6. 6.

   Calculate the effect of doubling the stiffness of a structure on its natural frequency if initially, the stiffness was given as 1000 N/m and mass as 100 kg.

   Hint

   Remember to substitute values carefully into the formula.