32.5.3. Vertical Distribution of Seismic Forces

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is seismic force distribution?

   Hint

   Think about how weight is spread across different parts of a building.

2. 2.

   Name one shape of seismic force distribution.

   Hint

   Consider how forces might change with height.

3. 3.

   What type of seismic force distribution assumes that forces decrease from the base to the top?

   • Inverted Triangular
   • Parabolic
   • Uniform

   Hint

   Think about where the most weight is concentrated.

4. 4.

   True or False: The parabolic distribution is more accurate than the inverted triangular distribution for taller structures.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider how weight distribution affects stability.

5. 5.

   Design a tall building (10 stories) with a given mass distribution. Compare the forces experienced at the base using both inverted triangular and parabolic models.

   Hint

   Use the total mass distribution of the building in your calculations.

6. 6.

   Evaluate a scenario where a building's mass is higher on upper floors. Discuss how this might affect the choice of seismic force distribution and why.

   Hint

   Think about how weight affects sway and stability during seismic events.