Structural Analysis and Design Flashcards
6 cards from real Building Engineering practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Structural Analysis and Design flashcards as text
What is the difference between dead load and live load in structural engineering?
Answer: Dead load is the weight of permanent structure; live load is variable occupancy and use loads
Dead loads are permanent gravitational forces from the structure's own weight, while live loads are variable forces from people, furniture, and movable equipment.
What structural system uses diagonal members to resist lateral forces in a steel frame building?
Answer: Braced frame
Braced frames use diagonal steel members to form triangulated panels that efficiently resist lateral loads from wind and seismic forces through axial stress.
What is the purpose of a foundation in a building structure?
Answer: To transfer building loads safely to the supporting soil or rock below
Foundations distribute structural loads over a sufficient bearing area so that soil stresses remain within safe limits and settlement is minimized.
Which structural material is strongest in tension but weak in compression?
Answer: Steel reinforcement (rebar)
Steel rebar has very high tensile strength and is embedded in concrete specifically because plain concrete is strong in compression but weak in tension.
What is the modulus of elasticity (E) used for in structural engineering calculations?
Answer: To relate stress to strain and calculate member deflection
The modulus of elasticity defines the stiffness of a material — higher E means less deflection under the same load — and is essential for computing beam and column deformations.
What does the term 'factor of safety' mean in structural design?
Answer: The ratio of a structure's capacity to the actual applied load
Factor of safety ensures structures can withstand loads beyond the design values, accounting for material variability, construction tolerances, and unforeseen overloads.