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.