Bridge Building

Activity I

Before beginning, answer the questions: 1 and 2.

1. What are the most common types of bridges? Describe each type.
2. List and define the basic forces that act on bridges. (Investigate Forces here) a. ________ b. ________ c. _________ d. ________ e. _________
3. The Romans are credited for this type of bridge shape:  _____________________.
4. What kind of bridge is the strongest?  Why?
5. What geometric shape(s) do engineers use to create the strongest bridges?
6.What are the steps to the Design Process?
7. Explain the advantages of a truss beam bridge compared to a solid beam bridge.

Activity II (Honors Physics Only)

Create a table providing information on 5 bridges (only 1 can be from this area).
Your table should include charateristics of the bridges (height, how long, location, type, year built, any important history surrounding the bridge, etc.). BE COMPLETE (Bridge website).

Read about trusses.
What are three basic types of trusses? Include a labeled, rough sketch of each type.  

Activity III

Bridge Building Virtual Lab

Create a table that records 1) the amount spent, 2) the amount remaining after each successful level and a rough sketch of each successful bridge.

Picture
Destructive Force

Use the link below to investigate earthquakes; complete at least 10 trials using as many different variables as possible.

Earthquake Investigation

Complete a table with each variable as follows:

​Ground
Reinforcement
Magnitude
Destructive Force (Aftermath)
​
For Destructive Force, provide a brief synopsis on the appearance of the building.

Sample Chart for the Virtual Lab





​​ *Honors Physics Only*  Answer the following questions in your journal during this investigation:
  1. What are the two types of seismic waves (research this)?
  2. Which method of reinforcement seemed to be most effective for tremors?
  3. Did you find a system of reinforcement that was effective for super quakes?
  4. In your opinion, which ground type would you consider building your own home on? Why did you make this choice?
  5. After some research, describe how and where earthquakes travel.  (50 of your words)
  6. Provide government and private sector methods that countries like Japan and Indonesia apply to prevent massive earthquake destruction. (50 of your words)