Natural Frequencies/resonance
Most recent answer: 10/22/2007
Q:
I am doing a science project on earthquakes, natural frequencies and resonance in structures. I would like to find more information on the last 2 topics so that I can creat a model of a structure designed to withstand an earthquake
- jane edwards (age 12)
lincoln, ne
- jane edwards (age 12)
lincoln, ne
A:
Resonance happens when the frequency of a vibrating force is equal to a
natural (resonant) frequency of the object to which the force is
applied. When resonance occurs, a large amount of energy can be
transmitted to the object, which results in a large vibration. For this
earthquake project, I think that in order to build a structure that can
withstand an earthquake, you need to first know the affects of the
earthquake. These large vibrations can cause sideway forces on the
building, so in order to withstand these forces, the structure would
need to be able to resist these forces. In order to withstand these
horizontal forces, the addition of diaphragms or trussings can be used.
Also, braced frames, shear walls, and moment resisting frames can be
used. There is a good website at that has good examples of structures that are specifically built to withstand such vibrations.
Gloria
Gloria
(published on 10/22/2007)