TED-Ed: Could we build a wooden skyscraper? | Stefan Al

The video discusses Mr. Net, the world's tallest wooden building, and the evolution of wooden construction. It highlights the challenges of traditional lumber, the innovations of glulam and CLT, and the advantages of engineered wood, such as sustainability and resilience. Despite limitations, wooden buildings can significantly reduce carbon emissions.

What was the main challenge in constructing wooden buildings taller than six stories before the invention of engineered wood?

• Lack of skilled labor

• Limited availability of wood

• High cost of materials

• Vulnerability to perpendicular forces

How does cross-laminated timber (CLT) achieve its structural rigidity?

• By increasing the thickness of wood panels

• By alternating the orientation of wood layers

• By using a special type of glue

• By using metal reinforcements

Which of the following is a key advantage of using glulam in construction?

• It is more versatile than CLT

• It has tensile strength comparable to steel

• It is lighter than traditional lumber

• It can be used for decorative purposes

What is a significant environmental benefit of using timber in building construction?

• It is cheaper than concrete

• It reduces the need for skilled labor

• It can be made carbon neutral

• It requires less maintenance

Why is it unlikely for a purely wooden structure to support a 40-story building?

• Wood is too expensive

• Wood cannot withstand high temperatures

• Wood is not durable enough

• Wood lacks the necessary strength