Essential questions 6.1

1. What is structural engineering?

Structural engineering is a type of engineering that focuses on the design of a building. More over it deals with the strength and stability of the structure.

2. How does the design of a structure impact how loads are dispersed?

Different designs handle weight differently. Such as, a flat roof would have a heavy force focused straight down all the way across the top which could cause sagging, where a arch helps move some of the weight from the roof toward the walls.

3. In what ways are wind, snow, and dead and live loads similar or different?

They are similar because they all have an affect on the building. All loads need to be transferred by the building to the ground so that they will not hurt the structure.

4. How does the use of mathematics help in understanding about the forces and loads on a structure?

The use of mathematics help in the understanding of the loads and forces by being able to calculate if the structure will be able to handle the loads or whether the structure will fail.
5. How do you determine what loads are applied to a structure?

You have to study the area that you are building. Then plan accordingly for weather. Also you must take into account the use of the structure such as books in a library.

6. Where would you locate a load table to assist your design process?

The Internet would be a good place to find a load table.