Understanding Structural Forces and Stability

Front

3 ways to help structures withstand forces

Back

1. Distribute load throughout the structure 2. Direct the forces along angled parts 3. Shape the parts for the specific type of force they are likely to experience

Front

Friction

Back

A force that opposes motion between two surfaces that are in contact

Front

Stable

Back

Steady, balanced, not likely to tip or collapse

Front

Center of gravity

Back

The point around which an object's weight is evenly distributed; the point at which all the gravitational force of an object acts

Front

Foundation

Back

Lowest support of a structure

Front

3 main methods to give a structure a firm foundation

Back

1. Find something solid (e.g., pilings down to bedrock) 2. Make a solid layer (e.g., packed gravel layer under road) 3. Spread the load (e.g., footings beneath walls are wider than the walls)

Front

Spin Stabilization

Back

Some objects gain stability from spinning, e.g., yo-yo, bicycles, top