Why parabola is used as the shape of the cross section of a tunnel?
2006-12-27 02:42:32 · 2 answers · asked by e12w117_4 2 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Engineering
Because it is more structurally stable than one with corners, because corners are areas of very high stress concentration. Having a parabolic or arch shape dissipates stress loads much better than a tunnel with a square cross section.
2006-12-27 02:51:31 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 2⤋
An efficient design for a tunnel involves equal distribution of load.
A roughly parabolic shape(sometimes semicircular) dissipates the entire stress caused due to the load of the mountain/rock above more efficiently than other geometrical shapes.
Rectangular Crosssection are generally avoided for the above reason.
It has nothing to do with the arch.an Arch is atotally different structural concept. Arches are much smaller in width, whereas tunnels are mostly longer.
2006-12-27 02:58:35 · answer #2 · answered by Som™ 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋