Why does the Eiffel Tower get narrower as it goes up?
ATo look elegant
BBecause they ran out of iron
CTo reduce weight at the top, lower the center of gravity, and reduce wind force on the upper sections
DBecause narrow structures are always stronger
Tapering serves multiple engineering purposes: less material at the top means less weight the bottom must support, a lower center of gravity makes the structure harder to tip, and a narrower profile at the top catches less wind. The elegant look is a bonus — the tapering is driven by engineering necessity.
Question 2 True / False
The biggest challenge for a very tall tower is supporting the weight on top of it.
TTrue
FFalse
Answer: False
While supporting weight is important, wind is usually the bigger challenge for very tall structures. Wind force increases with height, and a tall tower acts like a long lever arm that amplifies the tipping force. Engineers spend more time designing for wind resistance than for weight support in most skyscrapers and communication towers.
Question 3 Short Answer
What three strategies do engineers use to make tall towers strong and stable?
Think about your answer, then reveal below.
Model answer: A wide base (to spread weight and resist tipping), tapering (getting narrower toward the top to reduce weight and wind exposure), and bracing with triangles (to prevent swaying and add rigidity).
These three strategies work together. The wide base provides a stable foundation. Tapering reduces the forces that try to tip the tower. Triangular bracing makes the frame rigid so it does not sway or deform. The Eiffel Tower, cell phone towers, and modern skyscrapers all use some combination of these three approaches.