Resonant Frequency Model

A physics demonstration of how the natural resonant frequencies of objects (such as buildings) are determined by their height.

• A tall building (like a skyscraper) will respond to low-frequency oscillations and vibrations
• A short building (like a three-story building) will respond to high-frequency oscillations and vibrations

Resonance in buildings happens when outside forces, like wind or earthquakes, shake a building at just the right rhythm to match the building’s natural “wobble.” When this happens, the shaking can get much stronger, like when you push someone on a swing at just the right time, and they go higher and higher.