🏗️ Internal and External Forces on Structures
Discover how forces shape the world around us! This quiz explores the internal forces (tension, compression, and shear) that keep structures strong and stable, as well as the external forces (like gravity, wind, and earthquakes) that push and pull on buildings and bridges. Learn how engineers design structures to resist these forces and keep us safe. This is part of Ontario Grade 5 Physics focusing on Forces on Structures & Mechanisms.
Questions in this quiz
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- Question 1
Which internal force occurs when a structure is being pulled apart at both ends, like when you stretch a rope?
- Question 2
A column in a tall building supports the weight of the floors above it. Which internal force is most active in this column?
- Question 3
Shear is an internal force that causes a structure to twist or bend in opposite directions.
- Question 4
Which of the following is an example of an external force acting on a structure?
- Question 5
Gravity is an external force that always pulls structures downward. How do buildings resist this downward force?
- Question 6
A bridge's cables that hang from tall towers experience tension as they support the weight of the bridge deck.
- Question 7
In an earthquake, buildings experience sudden, irregular movements from the ground. What type of internal forces are most likely triggered in a building during an earthquake?
- Question 8
When a wooden beam is loaded with weight in the middle and supported at both ends, it sags slightly downward. What internal force causes the top part of the beam to experience compression?
- Question 9
External forces include only gravity and wind, not earthquakes or human-applied forces.
- Question 10
Why do tall buildings often have wider bases and thicker walls at the bottom than at the top?
- Question 11
In a triangular truss (a framework made of triangles), why are triangular shapes so effective at resisting external forces?
- Question 12
A rope hanging from a ceiling with a heavy weight attached experiences tension throughout its length as it pulls against the ceiling.
- Question 13
Which structure would best resist being twisted by strong rotational forces (like a tornado spinning around it)?
- Question 14
An arched stone bridge uses compression effectively. How does the arch shape help distribute the weight of vehicles crossing it?
- Question 15
Applied forces from people, vehicles, or equipment pushing or pulling on a structure are types of external forces.
- Question 16
When designing a structure, why must engineers account for both internal and external forces working together?
- Question 17
A steel cable on a construction crane lifts a heavy load straight up. Which statement correctly describes the forces on the cable?