skyscraper shapes and wind forces
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Skyscraper Shapes and Wind Forces
Neema Smith
Introduction
Fact: skyscrapers are tall. Because of this, skyscrapers face many obstacles, one of the most dangerous being high wind velocities. If a skyscraper isn’t made to withstand these winds, it can shift and sway.
I will test which building shape is most efficient in withstanding high winds.
Experimental Plan
○ Objective/Purpose○ Hypotheses○ Steps
Objective/Purpose
• Using 3 skyscrapers with 3 different cross-sectional shapes:
Rectangular
Triangular
Circular
…
• I will find which skyscraper shape withstands the highest wind velocity.
Objective/Purpose
Hypotheses
• I predict that the skyscraper with the circular cross-section will be most effective.
Hypothesis:
Null Hypothesis:• The skyscraper with the circular cross-section will not be the most effective against the high wind velocity.
Steps(1) First I built a wind
tunnel… The fan will blow wind through one side, and the model skyscraper will stand on the other end opposite the fan.
Steps(2)Then I built each
skyscraper…Triangular
Rectangular
Circular
Steps
(3) I tested each skyscraper against 3 wind speeds using a fan at one end of the wind tunnel.
(SEE VIDEOS)
Steps
(4) I then recorded all of my results in a table…
Shape: Speed 1: Speed 2: Speed 3:
Rectangular Y X ---
Circular Y Y Y
Triangular Y Y X
Results
Y = Building remained upright X = Building collapsed
Conclusion
My hypothesis was correct:
•The results proved that the skyscraper with the circular cross-sectional area was the most efficient at withstanding all 3 levels of wind. The rectangular-shaped skyscraper was the least efficient in withstanding the high wind velocities.
Conclusion[cont.]
•This is because instead of the wind pushing against the flat edges of the rectangular cross-sectioned building, the wind slid around the smooth, more aero-dynamically shaped sides of the skyscraper with the circular cross-section.