Mrs. Nowlan's Grade 7 Science

Unit 4: Structures and Forces

Topic 7

Topic 7: Stable Structures

Concepts:

  • investigate factors affecting stability of a structure and techniques used to increase stability.
  • learn that lowering a structure's centre of gravity and distributing a structure's mass over a large area both result in higher levels of stability.

Which type is which?

Dates to Remember

January 10: Discussion and note taking from pages 321 - 343

January18: Review day

Final Project: Due January 28

Mid Term Science Exam: January 22

 

 

Definitions

Stable structure: one that is not likely to tip or fail.

Centre of Gravity: the point at which all of the gravitational force of an object may be considered to act. Movement away from the centre of gravity causes a structure to fall.

Pilings - large, metal, concrete or wood cylinders that are pushed deep into loose soil until they rest on bedrock. They are used to add support to structures that are built on soft foundations.

Footings: concrete foundations beneath walls that are wider than the walls themselves. Footings spread the load of the structure, reducing the stress.

 

Arch (B)

Beam or Truss (A)

Cable-stayed

Suspension (C)

Cantilever (D)

Sites

Geometry of Bridges

Beam Bridges

Arch Bridge

Earthquake engineering

BUILD YOUR OWN BRIDGE

 

 

 

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Calgary Board of Education
All contents copyright © 1999, CBE. All rights reserved.
Revised: January, 2002
Author: Diane Nowlan
jdnowlan@cbe.ab.ca