Pyramids have been used in building all over the world from ancient times in Egypt, Mexico, Italy, and Japan, to modern times in France and the United States. Use your research on a pyramid-shaped building and your knowledge of volume for a discussion giving consideration to purpose.
Begin the discussion by responding to the following prompt:
In your post, discuss the following with your peers:
Identify the chosen building. Why do you think the architect chose a pyramid for the shape of the building?
How would you design this building as a prism? Justify.
How would the change in shape affect the construction of the building?
How would the change in shape affect the use of the building? Use the concept of volume in this post.
I have chosen the Louvre Pyramid in Paris, France as my pyramid-shaped building. The architect, I.M. Pei, chose a pyramid for the shape of the building to symbolize a harmonious blend of modernity and tradition. The pyramid shape also allows for a unique and striking design that stands out among the surrounding historic buildings.
If I were to design the Louvre Pyramid as a prism, I would essentially be creating a rectangular prism with a triangular base. The volume of a prism is calculated by multiplying the area of the base by the height of the prism. In this case, the base of the prism would be a triangle rather than a rectangle, so the formula for the volume would be different.
The change in shape from a pyramid to a prism would affect the construction of the building by potentially making it less structurally complex. A pyramid shape requires more precise engineering for stability, while a prism shape might have more straight edges and right angles, making it easier to build.
In terms of use, the change in shape from a pyramid to a prism could affect the interior layout and functionality of the building. The volume of a prism is calculated differently than a pyramid, so the interior space and layout might need to be adjusted. The volume of the building would also be different, potentially affecting the capacity and usage of the space.
Overall, the choice of shape for a building like the Louvre Pyramid not only impacts its design and construction but also its purpose and functionality. The concept of volume plays a key role in understanding how different shapes can influence the use and design of a building.