Definitions
Types of Structures
Internal Forces
External Forces
Strucutral Supports
100

This point on a structure is on the inside and has equal weight evenly distributed around it.

Center of Gravity

100

This type of strucutre that holds itself up and is hollow inside.

Shell

100

This is a twisting force.

Torsion

100

Cars driving on a bridge is an example of what kind of load.

Live Load

100

This is a beam that is under compression in a truss.

Struts

200

This is the term used when a structure is made up of the same parts so that one side is the same as the other side. It also makes the structure look good.

Symmetry

200

A house is an example of this type of structure.

Frame

200

This is a pulling force.

Tension

200

The weight of the structure itself is this type of load.

Dead Load

200

This is a beam that is under tension in a truss.

Tie

300

This is the base of the structure that supports the building and anchors it to the earth.

Foundation

300

A dam is an example of this type of structure.

Solid

300

This is two opposing forces moving beside each other. 

Shear

300

This external force is the movement of large waves caused by earthquakes in the ocean.

Tsunami

300

This is a frame that is made up of ties and struts.

Truss

400

A structure's purpose.

Function

400

This type of structure is solid through out and usually has no space inside.

Solid

400

This is a pushing force.

Compression

400

This external force is caused by strong movement of wind that spins rapidly.

Tornado

400

This steel beam is used for frames in heavy structures like buildings and bridges.

I-Beam or H-Beam

500

This is the ability of the structure to withstand external loads and forces while using the LEAST amount of materials. 

Structural Efficiency

500

This type of structure is a combination of horizontal beams and vertical columns that form a skeleton for the structure.

Frame

500

The Tacoma Narrows Bridge collapsed because of this force.

Torsion

500

Heavy snowfall on the roof of a house is an example this type of load.

Live Load

500

When you take materials and shape them into parallel ridges and grooves, or the ridges and grooves themselves that make a structural support stronger OR layering of materials.

Corrugation or Lamination

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