Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

I am doing an experiment this year for school. I have done some research, but I am just not sure how to design my expirement. I would really like some suggestions.

My question is: How does the shape of a tower effects how sturdy the tower is?

My research mostly focased on skyscraper design, and building stucture. I just need a starting point. Thanks!!

Interesting structural experiment. First, you need to isolate the variables you will be dealing with. I suggest using the same building material in all your designs, i.e. popsicle sticks and wood glue, as well as the same construction technique, i.e. cross beam supports. I might also conduct some strength tests of individual building components just to understand the forces involved. Next, you need to ask what force are you testing against, a weight from the top, a side force, sturdy against a moving foundation (like an earthquake), etc...?

These are some examples to get you thinking about the independent, dependant and controlled variables. These things will drive the ultimate design of your experiment.

Hope this helps. Post here with further questions.

The following link will take you to a science buddies project under the civil engineering topic heading. It deals with bridge building, but I think is close in underlying physics you are interested in investigating. There are other similar projects there that may help you refine your experiment.

https://www.sciencebuddies.org/science- ... Q&from=TSW

Post additional questions here for further help.

Good luck,