Chapter 24.1, Problem 5R

To determine

To explain: The properties of the structural material used in building a skyscraper in an earth-quake zone.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

A skyscraper that is built in an earthquake zone should have special features to allow it to withstand the earthquake.

Since steel is an alloy, it exhibits the property of alloys. One property of alloys is ductility. It can be beaten into sheets. In other words, steel has flexibility. Skyscrapers in earthquake zone are built using steel. Since steel is flexible, it can resist the huge strength of vibrations from the earthquake. The building bends due to the vibrations but does not break due to the flexibility of steel.

Conclusion:

Steel has huge strength as well as flexibility. Hence skyscrapers in earthquake zones are built using steel.