MArch Master of Architecture Master of Architecture: Building Technology 3

Question 1

Which structural system uses a series of cables suspended from tall pylons to support a bridge or roof deck?

Accepted Answer

Cable-stayed structure

Answer

Cable-stayed structures transfer deck loads directly to pylons via taut cables, allowing long spans with minimal material.

Question 2

The dew point temperature in a building assembly is the temperature at which:

Accepted Answer

Water vapor in the air begins to condense into liquid

Answer

Dew point is the temperature at which air becomes saturated (100% RH) and water vapor condenses into liquid water.

Question 3

In acoustics, the Sound Transmission Class (STC) rating measures a partition's ability to attenuate:

Accepted Answer

Airborne sound transmission

Answer

STC ratings measure how well a building partition reduces airborne sound transmission across a range of frequencies.

Question 4

A moment frame resists lateral loads primarily through:

Accepted Answer

Rigid beam-column connections that develop bending moments

Answer

Moment frames achieve lateral resistance through stiff, moment-resisting connections between beams and columns that resist rotation.

Question 5

Thermal bridging in a wall assembly most commonly occurs at:

Accepted Answer

Structural studs, shelf angles, and fasteners that penetrate the insulation layer

Answer

Metal studs and shelf angles are highly conductive and bypass the insulation layer, creating pathways for heat loss.

MArch Master of Architecture Practice Test