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Subjects>Arts & Entertainment>Art & Architecture

Why do some buildings withstand earthquakes and some not?

Anonymous

∙ 15y ago

Updated: 8/30/2023

The height of a particular building can make a difference in the amount of sustained damage due to ground acceleration at the base of the building.

The building has a inertia. During an earthquake, the ground shakes by accelerating in a particular direction and then accelerating back in the opposite direction. While the base of the building is accelerating, the remainder of the building has inertia that tries to keep it in one spot. There is more "building" that is resisting the acceleration in a tall building than in a small building.

Imagine holding on to a foot-long ruler and shaking it back and forth; you should feel the 'whip' effect as the top of the ruler struggles to keep up with the base of the ruler in your hand. Now, use the same amount of force but with a yardstick; you should feel a considerably higher amount of 'whip' and wobbling as the entire yard's worth of wood tries to keep up. The effect is similar to a large building; the top of the building 'whips' about as the base is shaken.

Wiki User

∙ 14y ago

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Some buildings are built above standard, some built below standards, some right on par, and sometimes odds can just swing either way.

Wiki User

∙ 15y ago

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Q: Why do some buildings withstand earthquakes and some not?

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Why all earthquakes are not damaging?

Earthquakes vary greatly in intensity. Many are not strong enough to cause any notable damage. Additionally, in some earthquake-prone areas the buildings are built to withstand earthquakes, and so are less likely to be damaged.

Does Japan have any solutions to their earthquakes?

The construct buildings knowing that earthquakes can strike.Many buildings are made to wobble when earthquakes strike. This gives a better chance for the building to absorb the earthquake and remain standing.

Are japans buildings earthquake proof?

Engineers in Japan design the buildings with the understanding of the frequency and intensity of earthquakes. They build the buildings to move with the motion of earthquakes so they will not crumble.

What is the kind of damage that earthquakes inflict on buildings like houses or shopping malls?

The buildings collapse.

Why do earthquakes bother people?

Because they knock buildings down. People are bothered when buildings fall onto them.

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Related Questions

Why do earthquakes destroy some buildings and not others?

Daring an earthquake, the ground shakes, twists, and heaves, causing buildings to move. Houses can shift on their foundations, crack, and tumble to the ground. Some buildings, however, are built to withstand violent earthquakes. Some are also braced with special materials to keep them standing.

Do earthquakes effect buildings?

Yes, earthquakes can have a significant impact on buildings. The shaking motion of an earthquake can cause structural damage to buildings, leading to collapse or compromised stability. It is important for buildings to be designed and constructed to withstand the forces of earthquakes to minimize damage and protect occupants.

Why all earthquakes are not damaging?

Earthquakes vary greatly in intensity. Many are not strong enough to cause any notable damage. Additionally, in some earthquake-prone areas the buildings are built to withstand earthquakes, and so are less likely to be damaged.

What do people learn from earthquakes?

How to prepared for the next earthquake. For example, construction has enhanced significantly due to earthquakes. Buildings are now built to withstand any earthquake.

Why is it important for us to indentify areas which are prone to earthquakes?

Areas prone to earthquakes should be identified so that people can prepare for them. Most notably, bridges and public buildings should be built to withstand earthquakes.

What causes most of the damage in earthquakes because of the side to side swaying motion that many buildings are unable to withstand?

Surface Waves.

Why is it important for us to indentify areas which are prone to earthquake?

Areas prone to earthquakes should be identified so that people can prepare for them. Most notably, bridges and public buildings should be built to withstand earthquakes.

Why do some earthquakes cause more deaths?

Because in some countries the buildings are well built (especially in countries where earthquakes are common, where buildings are designed especially to stand them) and in some places the houses are badly built.

What earthquake magnitude can a brick building withstand?

Brick buildings can typically withstand earthquakes up to about magnitude 7, but this can vary based on factors such as building design, construction quality, and location. Retrofitting older brick buildings with earthquake-resistant measures can help improve their ability to withstand stronger earthquakes.

Why did some of the buildings survive the Kobe earthquake and some did'NT?

Buildings that were retrofitted to withstand earthquakes or those built with seismic design features were more likely to survive the Kobe earthquake. On the other hand, older buildings or structures that were poorly constructed were more susceptible to damage or collapse. Additionally, the soil composition and proximity to the fault line also played a role in determining which buildings survived and which did not.

What can be done when a new home is being built to prevent damage caused by liquefaction?

to reduce earthquake damage, new buildings must be made stronger and more flexible. older buildings however must be modified to withstand stronger earthquakes

Do earthquakes cause a lot of damage to property?

Yes, earthquakes can cause severe damage to property, especially in areas where buildings are not constructed to withstand the shaking. The extent of damage depends on factors including the earthquake's magnitude, depth, and proximity to populated areas.

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