Science Term 2 Exam Flashcards
What is a structure
A structure is something with a definite size, shape, and purpose that can hold a load.
Natural structures 4 examples
Turtle shell / snail shell
Bird’s nest
Ant hill
Spider web
Chicken Egg
Bee hive
A structure built in nature
Built structures 4 examples
Buildings
Vehicles
Furniture
Statues
Fences
Playgrounds
Man made structure
What is the form of a structure
Shape
Size
Materials
What is the form of a structure
Shape
Size
Materials
What is the function of a structure
Its purpose/ability to do something
Form follows function
The form of a structure should be determined by its intended purpose.
You must know what purpose the structure will serve, or what it will do, in order to decide how you will design or build it.
Form should relate to the function of a structure
Shell structure
A shell structure uses a single outside layer to surround an inner object, substances, space etc.
Frame structure
A frame structure uses a framework of connected parts to provide support. Frame structures can be two-dimensional (like a fence or ladder) or three-dimensional (buildings, furniture, etc).
Solid structure
A solid structure is made from one piece of solid material. The mass of the material is used to resist forces.
What is a force
A force is a push or a pull. A force can make an object start moving or stop moving.
Gravity
Gravity is the force that attracts a body toward the centre of Earth. It is a force that is applied to everything on Earth.
Centre of gravity
Centre of gravity is the point from which the weight of a structure may be considered to act (the part with the most weight on average). It is the part of a structure most affected by the force of gravity.
- Why might engineers consider the centre of gravity when designing a structure?
Considering the centre of gravity can help engineers ensure that structures are strong, stable, and able to withstand loads.
What is an external force
An external force acts on an object or structure from outside the structure.
- What is the difference between a contact and non-contact force?
A contact force is applied when two objects touch.
Non-contact forces are created without touching another object.
Magnitude of a force
Magnitude is the size of a force (i.e. a measurement of force)
Point of application
The point of application is the specific location where a force makes contact with a structure.
Plane of application
The plane of application is the side of a structure affected by a force.
Plane of application
The plane of application is the side of a structure affected by a force.
Whats a Load
A load is a weight or source of pressure that creates an external force on a structure.
- What is the difference between a static and dynamic load?
A static load is something that does not change. The size, position and direction of a static load remains the same.
A dynamic load is a force that can change when acting on a structure.
Static load examples
The roof of a house
A book placed on a desk
A bench on the sidewalk
Dynnamic load examples 2
Rain / snow falling on a roof
Wind blowing against a building
People moving within a building
Internal force
An internal force acts from within a structure