TED-Ed: Why do buildings fall in earthquakes? - Vicki V. May

The video explores the impact of earthquakes on buildings, debunking common myths about building collapse. It explains how buildings respond to seismic activity, focusing on factors like mass and stiffness. The 1985 Mexico City earthquake serves as a case study to illustrate the concept of resonance, where seismic waves matched the natural frequency of mid-sized buildings, causing them to collapse. Modern engineering solutions, such as base isolation and tuned mass dampers, are discussed as methods to prevent such collapses by absorbing shocks and reducing vibrations.

What are the main factors that determine a building's response to an earthquake?

How did the 1985 Mexico City earthquake illustrate the relationship between building height and earthquake damage?

Explain the concept of natural frequency in relation to buildings and earthquakes.

What is resonance, and how did it affect mid-sized buildings during the Mexico City earthquake?

Describe the innovative systems engineers use to prevent building collapses during earthquakes.