35.1. Definition of Peak Ground Acceleration (PGA)

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does PGA stand for?

   Hint

   Think about it in the context of earthquakes!

2. 2.

   In which units is PGA typically measured?

   Hint

   What is acceleration due to gravity?

3. 3.

   What is the formula for calculating Peak Ground Acceleration?

   • PGA = a(t)
   • PGA = max |a(t)|
   • PGA = min |a(t)|

   Hint

   Look at the definition we discussed in class.

4. 4.

   Is PGA measured in units of g?

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Recall how we measure acceleration in physics.

5. 5.

   During an earthquake, a recorded ground acceleration peaked at 12 m/s². Calculate the PGA in g.

   Hint

   Remember the conversion of m/s² to g.

6. 6.

   Discuss how the choice of location affects PGA measurements for two different sites: one in an urban area with soft soil and one on a rocky hillside. What might the differences in PGA be?

   Hint

   Think about how materials impact earthquake forces.