32.1. Seismic Excitation and Ground Motion Characteristics

Try these first

1. 1.

   Define Peak Ground Acceleration (PGA).

   Hint

   What does 'peak' refer to in this context?

2. 2.

   What are the three main parameters of ground motion?

   Hint

   Think about how ground movement can be measured.

3. 3.

   What does PGA stand for?

   • Peak Ground Acceleration
   • Peak Ground Activity
   • Peak Ground Action

   Hint

   What does 'peak' imply about the value?

4. 4.

   True or False: Inelastic spectra represent structures that return to their original shapes post-load.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Think about how elastic behavior differs from inelastic behavior.

5. 5.

   Given an accelerogram, estimate the PGA, PGV, and analyze potential structural responses based on these parameters.

   Hint

   Look at the highest peaks in the accelerogram data.

6. 6.

   Design a simplified building model that can withstand specific PGV and PGA values while detailing how response spectra would inform material choices.

   Hint

   Use established formulas related to structural dynamics in your calculations.