Seismic Controlling Methods and Devices in Civil Engineering:

Seismic controlling methods and devices are critical components in civil engineering to mitigate the effects of seismic activities, such as earthquakes, on structures and infrastructure. These methods and devices are designed to reduce the seismic forces transmitted to buildings, bridges, and other structures, thereby enhancing their resistance to seismic events. Here's a brief overview:

Base Isolation Systems: Base isolation systems decouple the structure from the ground motion by placing flexible bearings or isolators between the foundation and the superstructure. These bearings absorb and dissipate seismic energy, reducing the seismic forces transmitted to the structure.

Tuned Mass Dampers: Tuned mass dampers are devices installed within a structure to counteract the effects of seismic vibrations. They consist of a mass mounted on springs or dampers and are tuned to resonate at specific frequencies, effectively reducing structural oscillations during seismic events.

Bracing and Shear Walls: Bracing systems and shear walls provide lateral stability to structures by resisting horizontal forces generated by seismic activity. Bracing elements, such as diagonal braces or moment frames, are strategically placed within the structure to redirect seismic forces and prevent excessive deformation.

Fluid Viscous Dampers: Fluid viscous dampers are hydraulic devices installed within structures to dissipate seismic energy. They consist of a piston moving through a viscous fluid, which generates damping forces proportional to the velocity of the structure, thereby reducing its seismic response.

Reinforced Concrete and Steel Construction: Utilizing reinforced concrete and steel construction techniques can enhance the seismic resistance of structures. Reinforced concrete structures are designed with additional reinforcement to withstand seismic forces, while steel structures offer ductility and flexibility, allowing them to absorb seismic energy without failure.

Objective Type Question:

Which seismic controlling device is designed to counteract the effects of structural oscillations by resonating at specific frequencies?

a) Base Isolation Systems

b) Bracing and Shear Walls

c) Tuned Mass Dampers

d) Fluid Viscous Dampers