4.3
TheBOSSModel:
Building Oscillation Seismic Simulation
TEACHING CLUES AND CUES
As noted in lesson 4.2,
you may want to have
one group of students
working with this model
while another is working with the
model wall.
TEACHING CLUES AND CUES
Since the rods can
break with rough
handling, you may want
to buy one or two extra.
RA T I ONA L E
During an earthquake, buildings oscillate. If the frequency of this
oscillation is close to the natural frequency of the building, resonance
may cause severe damage. The BOSS model allows students to
observe the phenomenon of resonance.
F OCU S QU E S T I ON S
Why do buildings of different heights respond differently in an
earthquake?
OB J E C T I V E S
Students will:
1. Predict how a structure will react to vibrations (oscillations) of
different frequencies.
2. Perform an experiment to establish the relationship between the
height of a structure and its natural frequency.
3. Describe the phenomenon of resonance.
MA T E R I A L S
for one BOSS Model
Q
Master 4.3a, BOSS Model Assembly
Q
4 pieces of wood, 1 x 4, each 15 cm (6 in.) long
Q
1 piece of wood, 2 x 4, for a base, about 45 cm (18 in.) long
Q
2 threaded rods, 10 x 24, each 96 cm (36 in.) long
Q
2 threaded rods, 10 x 24, each 61 cm (2 ft.) long
Q
Goggles for eye protection
Q
Hacksaw or power saw with metal-cutting blade
Q
Electric drill or hand drill with ¼-in. and ¾-in. wood bore bits
Q
Hammer
Q
8 wing nuts, 10 x 24
Q
8 tee nuts, 10 x 24
A G U
/
F E M A
248
S
E I S M I C
S
L E U T H S
