Super Structures: The Science of Bridges, Buildings, Dams, and Other Feats of Engineering

An “extraordinary guide to the hidden secrets of modern man-made miracles . . . Highly recommended” —from the author of Froth!: The Science of Beer (Midwest Book Review).

Ever wonder how a graceful and slender bridge can support enormous loads over truly astonishing spans? Why domes and free-standing arches survive earthquakes that flatten the rest of a city?

Physicist Mark Denny looks at the large structures around us—tall buildings, long bridges, and big dams—and explains how they were designed and built and why they sometimes collapse, topple, or burst.

Denny uses clear, accessible language to explain the physics behind such iconic structures as the Parthenon, the Eiffel Tower, the Forth Rail Bridge in Edinburgh, and Hoover Dam. His friendly approach allows readers to appreciate the core principles that keep these engineering marvels upright without having to master complex mathematical equations.

Employing history, humor, and simple physics to consider such topics as when to use screws or nails, what trusses are, why iron beams are often I-shaped, and why medieval cathedrals have buttresses, Denny succeeds once again in making physics fun.

Praise for Mark Denny

“Denny’s wry humor is fun to read and made me laugh out loud.” —Mark Kidger, author of Astronomical Enigmas

“Denny largely sheds the complexity of mathematical constructs, distilling their most salient features into a more qualitative understanding of radar and sonar systems.” —Choice

“Indeed, Denny’s writing is anything but dry and boring. He adeptly explains complex subject matter and does so with relatively simple language and minimal use of symbolic notation.” —Bat Research News

© 2010 Johns Hopkins University Press (Ebook): 9780801899560

Release date

Ebook: 7 June 2010