Understanding the earthquake magnitude a building is designed to withstand is more complex than it seems. This lecture explores why providing a straightforward answer is challenging and how engineers ensure buildings are resilient against seismic events. We’ll cover the basics of earthquake mechanics, how seismic forces are measured, and how building codes guide structural design without specifying exact magnitudes. The lecture also introduces Performance-Based Design (PBD), a method that uses site-specific studies and advanced modeling to predict how buildings will respond to various earthquake scenarios. By the end, you’ll understand how engineers connect earthquake magnitude to building safety, offering clearer insights into structural resilience and reassuring stakeholders that modern buildings are designed with rigorous safety margins.
