Apparently a bridge has a feature that allows adjacent sections of roaddeck to move relative to each other in the event of an earthquake. Why would sections of the roaddeck move relative to each other? Surely they would all move at the same speed at the same direction at the same time?
If you’re bored or extra helpfull, I’m talking about the hinge pipe beams here http://baybridgeinfo.org/media/video/ins… but its not necessary to watch this to answer my question.
Chosen Answer:
An earthquake moves in waves exactly like waves in water. During a quake one side of your bridge will be higher than the other – then lower – then to one side… you get the idea. If your bridge is a rigid structure and the quake is large there is a good chance it will snap into pieces – not a good day for anyone on the bridge at the time.
Here’s a pic of what a large quake can do:
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2010/03/photogalleries/100309-chile-earthquake-tsunami-aerial-pictures/#/chile-tsunami-earthquake-aerials-bridge-collapse_13662_600x450.jpg
You can see how some sections are off to one side. This reflects the motion of one section to another when the bridge failed.
by: NoPlate
on: 26th June 12
