The Eiffel Tower is one of the most recognizable structures in the world. As the Tower has been displayed over the course of the Olympics this month, my 10 year old dreams of the day she can go to Paris and witness it’s grandeur in person. But beyond its iconic status as a symbol of France, the Eiffel Tower is a masterpiece of engineering and science. Built for the 1889 World's Fair, the tower's construction was a significant achievement in architectural and engineering history.
The Eiffel Tower is constructed primarily of wrought iron, a material chosen for its strength and flexibility. Wrought iron's malleability allowed it to be shaped into the intricate lattice framework that characterizes the tower. This framework not only gave the tower its unique appearance but also provided immense structural stability.
The tower weighs approximately 10,100 tons, with 7,300 tons attributed to the iron structure alone. Despite its weight, the design ensures that the load is evenly distributed. The four massive arched legs anchor the tower, spreading the weight and providing a stable foundation. Each leg is positioned at a 54-degree angle, a design choice that enhances stability and minimizes the impact of wind forces.
One of the most significant engineering challenges was ensuring that the tower could withstand the wind. Gustave Eiffel and his team conducted extensive wind tunnel tests to understand how wind forces would affect the tower. The open lattice design was a direct result of these studies. The gaps in the structure allow wind to pass through, reducing the wind pressure on the tower. This design principle was a major breakthrough in skyscraper engineering and has influenced many modern structures.
Students can conduct their own experiments on wind forces. Use cardboard, construction paper, popsicles sticks, blocks, or other materials to engineer a tower. Place the tower in front of a fan and see what type of structure can best withstand the wind. Another fun craft is to build your own Eiffel tower. Using the print out below, print each of the four sides of the Eiffel tower and then glue them to cardboard. Cut out the pieces and use hot glue to assemble the tower.
The construction of the Eiffel Tower demonstrated several innovations that have had lasting impacts on engineering and architecture. The tower's construction showcased groundbreaking techniques in materials science, wind resistance, and structural design. Today, it continues to inspire engineers and architects around the world, standing as a symbol of what can be achieved when science and creativity come together.
