27.6.1. Peak Ground Acceleration (PGA)

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does PGA stand for?

   Hint

   Think about what measurements are taken during an earthquake.

2. 2.

   What is the purpose of measuring PGA?

   Hint

   Consider why engineers need to know about earthquake effects.

3. 3.

   What does Peak Ground Acceleration (PGA) measure?

   • Total displacement during an earthquake
   • Maximum acceleration of the ground
   • Average shaking intensity

   Hint

   Think about what aspect of an earthquake would be crucial for structural integrity.

4. 4.

   True or False: PGA is irrelevant for new building codes in earthquake-prone areas.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider the importance of measurements in engineering.

5. 5.

   Design a small building for a city expected to have a PGA of 0.7 g. List key design features expected to withstand this level of acceleration.

   Hint

   Consider how engineers ensure buildings can move without collapsing.

6. 6.

   A building weighs 300,000 lbs. Calculate the base shear if the PGA is recorded at 0.8 g.

   Hint

   Remember the formula Base Shear = PGA * Total Weight.