32.12. Earthquake Response of Special Structures

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is the purpose of expansion joints in bridges?

   Hint

   Think about how bridges need to 'breathe' during temperature changes.

2. 2.

   What is sloshing in the context of elevated water tanks?

   Hint

   Consider what happens to water in a bowl when you shake it.

3. 3.

   What is one benefit of using seismic isolation in bridges?

   • Increases seismic forces
   • Reduces earthquake damage
   • Prevents water movement

   Hint

   Consider why you'd want to separate the bridge from ground shocks.

4. 4.

   True or False: Higher mode effects are less significant in tall structures like towers.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Think about what happens when a tall structure sways.

5. 5.

   Given a tower’s height of 100m, analyze how higher modes impact its seismic performance. Discuss design adaptations that could mitigate risks.

   Hint

   Consider the principles of vibration and resonance.

6. 6.

   A dam has shown that its hydrodynamic effects worsen seismic forces during testing. Propose adjustments to its design based on modern engineering principles to reduce this effect.

   Hint

   Think of ways to let the water and structure 'move' together.