Computer simulation of seismic waves

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The discussion revolves around using MS Excel for simulating structural health monitoring (SHM) in response to seismic waves in Papua New Guinea, where seismic activity is prevalent. The initial inquiry seeks advice on how frequency and wavelength of seismic waves impact buildings. However, responses suggest that Excel is not suitable for this type of simulation, recommending more advanced programming tools like Python, MATLAB, Scilab, or Octave for better results. The limitations of home PCs for 1-D or basic 2-D simulations are highlighted, emphasizing the need for more powerful computing resources for complex simulations. Additionally, a participant shares their interest in seismology and provides links to relevant threads discussing recent seismic events in New Britain, while another clarifies their location in Port Moresby, noting the differences in seismic impact compared to more affected areas. The conversation underscores the importance of using appropriate tools and methodologies for accurate seismic simulations and educational purposes.
Peter Jackson
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Hello, I am working in Papua New Guinea where there is a great deal of seismic activity. I am interested in using MS Excel for simulation of SHM due to seismic waves. To investigate the how frequency and wavelength of the waves affects buildings. Does anyone have any experience of this type of simulation?
 
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Hahahaha, Excel, that is a good one!

Stay away from that terrible program.

To answer your question: You are better off going with something like python, matlab, scilab, or octave to do your programming. Also, if you are doing this on a home PC, you will be restricted to 1-D or a mediocre 2D simulation. There is a reason why people buy time at NASA to run simulations.
 
Peter Jackson said:
Hello, I am working in Papua New Guinea where there is a great deal of seismic activity. I am interested in using MS Excel for simulation of SHM due to seismic waves. To investigate the how frequency and wavelength of the waves affects buildings. Does anyone have any experience of this type of simulation?

HI Peter,

cannot help you directly with your query
This was more of an interest comment in that I do seismology from home and am into quake recording. You guys have really been getting shaken up over recent weeks
where are you located ... in New Britain ?

for comments and info on the New Britain events see my threads at ...
https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/big-quake-now.811574/

https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/major-quake-in-eastern-new-britain-png-now.812212/
regards
Dave
 
Hi Dave
I am in the capital Port Moresby, so we don't really experience earthquakes here. New Britain is an area of major seismic activity.

I am working in a school and would like students to use the evaluate the variables (speed, acceleration, energy) with respect to damage done. New Britain area is not heavily populated and houses are wood; so the damage is nothing like Nepal has suffered.

Thanks for the links
Peter
 
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Okay, so this is something I have been thinking about for a long time, because it's something I am passionate about and something that has personally affected me - and that's the generally negative attitude that people take towards physics. I think it's fair to say that the secondary (Middle+ High) school that I go to is one of the most elite in the country - yet I am yet to see another person with a passion for physics. There are countless who have dedicated their life to Chemistry...

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