Vocabulary
What is a force?
A push or a pull FORCE (e.g. pulling on a rope or pushing on a door)
Which structure is made of one solid piece?
Solid (mass) structure
What is stability?
The ability of a structure to stay balanced and not fall
What do compression forces do?
Push materials together
What materials did we use to build our structures?
Spaghetti noodles and marshmallows
What does magnitude describe?
Bonus: What is magnitude typically measured in?
How strong or big a force is
Bonus: Magnitude is typically measured in Newtons
Which structure uses a skeleton to support weight?
Frame structure
What happens if the center of gravity moves outside the base?
The structure tips over (e.g. Jenga experiments)
What do tension forces do?
Pull materials apart
What two froces did your structures have to withstand and what did this test?
Wind and weight. Tested gravity and loads
What is the center of gravity?
The point where all weight is centered.
Which structure has a thin outer shell that protects the inside space?
Shell structure
Which is more stable: A tall and narrow structure OR a short and wide structure? Explain why.
Short and wide
Where would you find compression forces in real life?
Columns, pillars, buildings, machines, etc.
What shape is often strongest in structures?
Triangles
What does equilibrium mean?
All forces are balanced and the object does not move
Give one real-life example of a frame structure
Answers may include:
- bridge
- house frame
- crane
- etc.
Why does a wide base increase stability?
Keeps center of gravity over base / prevents tipping
Where would you find tension in real life?
Ropes, cables, suspension bridge, etc.
Why does symmetry help a structure?
Distributes weight evenly / improves balance
What is the point of application?
The exact spot where a force acts on a structure
Explain why a frame structure is often more efficient than a solid structure
Uses less material while still supporting weight
Explain why a tall dtructure is more likely to fall than a short one.
Higher center of gravity makes it easier to tip
A bridge uses both compression and tension forces. Explain how.
Some parts are pushed together (compression) while others are pulled apart (tension)
Your tower is tall and symmetrical, but has a narrow base. Will it be stable? Why or why not?
No -- a narrow base makes a structure unstable even if it's symmetrical.