Why do buildings fall in earthquakes? - Vicki V. May
1,784,821 Views
22,133 Questions Answered
TEDEd Animation
Let’s Begin…
Earthquakes have always been a terrifying phenomenon, and they’ve become more deadly as our cities have grown — with collapsing buildings posing one of the largest risks. But why do buildings collapse in an earthquake? And how can it be prevented? Vicki V. May explains the physics of why it is not the sturdiest buildings, but the smartest, that will remain standing.
Resonance occurs when two motions match, thus causing the amplitude of the motions to increase. Ground motions due to earthquakes can cause a building to displace by a large amount. Pushing someone on a swing is another example of resonance – if you push the person at the correct rate the arc of the swing will increase. What are some other examples of resonance? How does resonance affect these different systems?
Sign in to answer questionAbout TED-Ed Animations
TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »
Meet The Creators
- Educator Vicki V. May
- Director Adam Comiskey
- Animator Ashleigh Campbell
- Artist Adam Southey
- Script Editor Alex Gendler
- Narrator Addison Anderson
