Impact of structures on society

Question 1

what enables us to communicate with others that are around the world

Answer 1

cell phone towers

Question 2

how big and where are cell phone towers

Answer 2

they can be any shape and size and they can be anywhere, even on top of roofs

Question 3

meaning - examine, analyse, column, guy, foundation

Answer 3

examine - look carefully at different parts of object
analyse - test functions of different parts of object
column - vertical structural element that transmits weight of structure above to structural elements below
guy - tensioned cable that used to keep vertical structures upright
foundation - load-bearing part of structure, on top of which parts are built

Question 4

what are the elements in a tower and why are they important

Answer 4

1 - mass of tower is “pulled down” by force of gravity
2 - the dish pulls down on the tie
3 - dish is pulled up by strut
4 - beam is braced by a strut
5 - horizontal beam connecting 2 columns is tie beam. this beam supports structure
6 - cable that anchors tower to ground is a guy. In some structures guys are called stays
7 - strut supports vertical column + expands base
It is important that these elements are carefully designed and work together to create a stable and functional structure.

Question 5

what do engineers do when designing a structure

Answer 5

• they examine parts / members of structure

- they analyse functions of parts, to ensure each part does correct job

Question 6

what must you consider when designing a structure

Answer 6

• visual pollution - term given to unattractive visual elements, such as too many wires, poles and cell phones towers in and area. we must avoid this
• stability - structures must be stable, mustn’t fall over. guy are used for this
• base size - stable structure must have big base to stop it from falling. supporting struts make bigger base
• centre of gravity - gravity pulls things down. should fall because of different members that balance the tension