Which of the following is NOT a key feature of earthquake-resistant masonry construction?
- AUse of through-stones or bond stones
- BProvision of horizontal bands at various levels
- CUse of slender walls with high aspect ratiosCorrect
- DUse of corner reinforcement
Solution
Concept
Features of earthquake-resistant masonry construction
Formula
NONE
Step-by-step solution
1. Earthquake-resistant masonry design aims to increase ductility, integrity, and stability during lateral loads. 2. Slender walls with high aspect ratios are highly susceptible to out-of-plane buckling and seismic damage. Answer: C
Explanation
Slender walls with high aspect ratios are highly susceptible to out-of-plane buckling and lateral instability during seismic shaking. Earthquake-resistant masonry relies on low aspect ratio, well-supported walls to resist lateral forces safely. Therefore, option C is NOT a feature of earthquake-resistant construction and is the correct answer.
Why the other options are wrong
A) Through-stones prevent wall delamination and are a key feature of earthquake-resistant masonry. D) Corner reinforcement ties orthogonal walls together, which is essential for seismic stability.
Shortcut
Slender walls with high aspect ratios reduce earthquake resistance.
Common mistake
Assuming slender walls with high aspect ratios improve earthquake performance rather than recognizing them as structural vulnerabilities.
Correct answer: C) Use of slender walls with high aspect ratios