OUR EXPERIMENT:
We used mini marshmallows and toothpicks to make 3 buildings with different shapes. For each, we sprayed a bit of hair spray on all the marshmallows to make them stronger. Each building had a different amount of toothpicks and marshmallows so therefore would differ in cost. After we made them, we built an earthquake simulator on which we tested the durability of our forms.
OBSERVATIONS:
|
FORM |
NUMBER
OF TOOTHPICKS |
NUMBER
OF MARSHMALLOWS |
TIME
LASTED ON EARTHQUAKE SIMULATOR |
|
Multi-Sided
3-D Shape |
76 |
33 |
more
than
a minute |
|
Rectangular Prism |
30 |
18 |
20
seconds |
|
Rectangular Pyramid |
72 |
30 |
20
seconds |
CONCLUSION:
The multi-sided 3d shape building that used triangular frames remained standing the longest. However, it is the most expensive because it used the most material. The rectangular pyramid and the rectangle tied for time standing but the rectangular prism was cheaper. Which is why we use them in our buildings. To change how we build, people would have to spend much more money and taxes would be raised. However if mass destruction did occur in an earthquake then it would probably cost about the same amount if not more to refurnish and rebuild your entire house. People should spend the money now and earthquake proof their house. New buildings should be ready for earthquakes!
What should you do in an earthquake?
How do you protect your home from an earthquake?
Canadian Shield (earthquake proof zone)