Reasonance
Resonance is caused by a force continually being added at the amplitude of an oscillation. For help understanding this definition, watch the video below.
Resonance can be caused by wind, soldiers marching, or other rhythmic things. This is why soldiers “break step” on a bridge, meaning that they stop timing their steps to be in unison.
Resonance can be combated by adding thickness to bridge deck, installing dampeners, or making the bridge a series of overlapping plates. Also, reducing the material exposed to wind can allow wind to pass through and make it harder for resonance to start up.
For more information on the collapse of the original Tacoma Narrows Bridge, go to the “Interesting Bridges” tab, and then the “Original Tacoma Narrows Bridge” page.
Resonance can be combated by adding thickness to bridge deck, installing dampeners, or making the bridge a series of overlapping plates. Also, reducing the material exposed to wind can allow wind to pass through and make it harder for resonance to start up.
For more information on the collapse of the original Tacoma Narrows Bridge, go to the “Interesting Bridges” tab, and then the “Original Tacoma Narrows Bridge” page.