Question

What is structural response factor?

(a) factor denoting the acceleration response spectrum of the structure subjected to earthquake ground vibrations

(b) factor by which the actual base shear force is reduced

(c) factor to obtain the design spectrum

(d) factor used to obtain the design seismic force

This question was addressed to me in unit test.

This intriguing question originated from Determination of Earthquake Loads topic in section Structural Analysis, Loading and Load Combinations of Design of Steel Structures

Answer 1

The correct choice is (a) factor denoting the acceleration response spectrum of the structure subjected to earthquake ground vibrations

Best explanation: Structural response factor (Sa/g) is the factor denoting the acceleration response spectrum of the structure subjected to earthquake ground vibrations. It depends on natural period of vibration and damping of the structure. Response Reduction Factor(R)  is the factor by which the actual base shear force is reduced. Zone Factor(Z) is factor to obtain the design spectrum. Importance Factor (I) is the factor used to obtain the design seismic force.