1.1. Introduction

Try these first

1. 1.

   Define free vibration.

   Hint

   Consider what happens after you push something and let go.

2. 2.

   What induces forced vibrations?

   Hint

   Think about forces that act while something is already moving.

3. 3.

   What is the primary cause of forced vibrations in structures?

   • Initial disturbances
   • Continuous external forces
   • Natural frequencies

   Hint

   Think about what keeps a system moving after an initial push.

4. 4.

   True or False: Free vibrations can occur indefinitely in the absence of external damping.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider what happens without any opposing forces.

5. 5.

   Given a structure that failed during an earthquake, analyze how the absence of vibrational considerations in its design could have contributed to its failure.

   Hint

   Reflect on how design measures could have mitigated these effects.

6. 6.

   Design a basic plan for a building that incorporates strategies to account for both free and forced vibrations.

   Hint

   Think about the materials and engineering principles that enhance stability.