Natural Frequencies/resonance

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

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

(published on 10/22/2007)