Structures: Or Why Things Don't Fall Down

Description

"Structures: Or Why Things Don't Fall Down" by J.E. Gordon is a classic engineering book that explores the principles behind the stability and strength of structures. Here's a brief summary: 1. Introduction to Structural Engineering: The book starts by introducing basic concepts in structural engineering, including forces, stresses, and material properties. It explains why understanding these principles is essential for designing safe and efficient structures. 2. **Forces and Stresses**: Gordon delves into the different types of forces that act on structures, such as tension, compression, shear, and torsion. He explains how these forces affect the behavior of materials and influence structural stability. 3. Material Properties: The book discusses the properties of various materials commonly used in engineering, including metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites. Gordon explains how these materials respond to different types of loading and how their properties influence structural design. 4. Structural Elements: Gordon examines different types of structural elements, such as beams, columns, and trusses. He explains how these elements distribute loads and resist deformation, providing insight into their design and performance. 5. Failure Mechanisms: The book explores common failure mechanisms in structures, such as buckling, fatigue, and fracture. Gordon discusses the factors that contribute to failure and methods for preventing catastrophic collapses. 6. Design Principles: Gordon outlines fundamental design principles for creating safe and efficient structures. He emphasizes the importance of considering factors such as load distribution, material selection, and structural stability during the design process. 7. Applications and Examples: Throughout the book, Gordon illustrates key concepts with real-world examples from engineering practice. He discusses the design and construction of various structures, from bridges and buildings to aircraft and ships. "Structures: Or Why Things Don't Fall Down" provides a comprehensive overview of structural engineering principles, making it a valuable resource for engineers, students, and anyone interested in understanding how structures work. It combines technical explanations with accessible language and engaging examples to demystify the science behind structural stability.