13.3.2 - Civil Engineering Applications - Skyscrapers

What city was one of the first to construct early skyscrapers?

• Los Angeles

• Chicago

• London

• Tokyo

Answer explanation

Chicago was one of the first cities to construct early skyscrapers, notably with the Home Insurance Building completed in 1885, which is often considered the first modern skyscraper.

What is the height of the Burj Khalifa in Dubai?

• 1,500 feet

• 2,717 feet

• 3,000 feet

• 2,000 feet

Answer explanation

The Burj Khalifa in Dubai stands at a height of 2,717 feet, making it the tallest building in the world. The other options are incorrect as they underestimate its impressive height.

What material was introduced to support the weight of skyscrapers without requiring massive walls?

• Wood

• Brick

• Iron and steel

• Glass

Answer explanation

Iron and steel were introduced as key materials in skyscraper construction, allowing for lighter structures that could support significant weight without the need for massive walls, unlike wood or brick.

What is the central core of a skyscraper usually made of?

• Wood

• Reinforced concrete

• Steel

• Glass

Answer explanation

The central core of a skyscraper is typically made of reinforced concrete, which provides the necessary strength and stability to support the building's height and withstand various forces, making it the best choice among the options.

How long can the construction process of a skyscraper take?

• 2 to 4 years

• 5 to 7 years

• 8 to 10 years

• 11 to 13 years

Answer explanation

The construction of a skyscraper typically takes 8 to 10 years due to the complexity of design, engineering, and regulatory approvals, along with the actual building process, making this the most accurate time frame.

What is a skyscraper primarily designed for?

• To serve as a single-family home

• To be a continuously habitable building with multiple floors

• To function as a temporary structure

• To be a small, single-story building

Answer explanation

A skyscraper is primarily designed to be a continuously habitable building with multiple floors, accommodating many people and businesses, unlike a single-family home or temporary structure.

What is the role of the structural frame in a skyscraper?

• To decorate the exterior of the building

• To provide a non-load-bearing structure

• To act as the skeleton, providing stability against environmental forces

• To serve as a temporary support during construction

Answer explanation

The structural frame acts as the skeleton of a skyscraper, providing essential stability against environmental forces such as wind and earthquakes, ensuring the building remains safe and upright.

Where is the central core of a skyscraper typically located?

• At the top of the building

• At the center of the building

• At the corners of the building

• At the base of the building

Answer explanation

The central core of a skyscraper is typically located at the center of the building. This design provides structural support and houses essential services like elevators and utilities, making it the most efficient placement.

What is the primary responsibility of a civil engineer in skyscraper construction?

• To design the interior decoration

• To ensure designs meet safety standards and regulations

• To manage the building's daily operations

• To sell the building to potential buyers

Answer explanation

The primary responsibility of a civil engineer in skyscraper construction is to ensure designs meet safety standards and regulations, which is crucial for the structural integrity and safety of the building.

What is the function of footings and piers in a building's foundation?

• To enhance the building's aesthetic appeal

• To provide temporary support during construction

• To distribute the weight of the structure and prevent settlement

• To serve as decorative elements

Answer explanation

Footings and piers are crucial in a building's foundation as they distribute the weight of the structure evenly and prevent settlement, ensuring stability and longevity of the building.