homework encyclopedia

202 Science and Technology

From houses and skyscrapers to bridges and highways,

our environment is constructed from many different

materials. Architects design structures to look good and

suit a purpose –. ENGINEERS make

structures work.

HOW IS A ROAD BUILT?

The first stage is planning. The route must not destroy

important landscapes or buildings. The design depends

on the terrain the road crosses. Tunnels are needed

through hills, and bridges across rivers. The site is

cleared, foundations are dug, and a stable stone base

is laid. The road is paved with concrete or Tarmac.

WHAT DOES AN ARCHITECT DO?

An architect’s job is to design and plan new

buildings and structures. Architects must

consider the building’s use, the choice of

materials, and the building’s environment.

Plans show the exact position and method

of fixing every detail, even the electric sockets.

WHAT ARE BUILDING SYSTEMS?

As well as the foundations, walls, and roof, the parts

or systems that go into making a building include the

heating, lighting, plumbing, and ventilation systems.

Usually, these systems are installed when the main

structure is complete, but some modules arrive with

bathrooms and electrical wiring intact.

HOW ARE BUILDING MATERIALS CHOSEN?

Most large structures are built with concrete and

steel. Concrete is used in huge quantities to make solid

foundations. Concrete walls, columns, and arches are

reinforced with steel to make them stronger. Wood is

still used for many smaller buildings, particularly in

. MODULAR CONSTRUCTION. It is light yet tough.

Large parts of modern buildings can be built away from the site,

then delivered ready for assembly. The modules fit together

in a pre-planned way. Modular construction reduces construction

costs and the time spent at a construction site.

SKYSCRAPER CONSTRUCTION 3

When a new building is built

in a busy city, the construction

company plan carefully so that

they do not disrupt the traffic

and trade nearby. This

skyscraper in Hong Kong’s

financial district will be 88

stories high when complete.

MODULAR CONSTRUCTION

Scaffolding

at the top of the building

provides a platform for

materials and construction

workers to build higher

1 MICROFLATS

These modular microflats in

Tokyo, Japan, were built to

save space in the city. They

are cheaper because they are

smaller than most houses, and

easier to build.

Construction

HEMISPHERIUM 1

An architect explores his new

designs inside a virtual reality

dome. He uses a joystick to

navigate round the view.

Empty shell

does not contain fittings

or fixtures, such as

carpets, yet

Temporary structures

around the main

building store

equipment, canteens,

and washrooms for

construction workers

Concrete core

reinforced with steel rods

Giant tower cranes

lift building materials

Fence

seals off

construction

site for safety