35.4. Response Spectra and PGA

Try these first

1. 1.

   What does the response spectrum represent?

   Hint

   Think about what happens to structures during earthquakes.

2. 2.

   What does PGA measure?

   Hint

   Focus on peak acceleration during shaking.

3. 3.

   What is the zero-period acceleration in a response spectrum?

   • Peak Velocity
   • Peak Ground Acceleration
   • Spectral Acceleration

   Hint

   Focus on what maximum values signify in response to ground motion.

4. 4.

   True or False: PGA provides information about the duration of shaking.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider what other parameters are necessary for a complete analysis.

5. 5.

   An engineer has a building with a response spectrum showing a PGA of 0.24g. How should this affect their design decisions for the building's structural elements?

   Hint

   Think about how much force your building must endure during an earthquake.

6. 6.

   Discuss how an increase in PGA might change the design approach for varying types of structures, such as bridges versus high-rise buildings.

   Hint

   Consider the different functions and designs of these structures with respect to movement.