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NCARB Project-Planning-Design Exam - Topic 2 Question 20 Discussion

Posted by Ocie on Aug 16, 2026 at 03:05 PM

The architect's greatest contribution to good seismic design is in the design of which of the following?

Suggested Answer: C

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation From Exact Extract:

Architects have the most influence on seismic performance through building form and configuration, including the plan and cross-sectional layout. A regular, symmetrical, and well-configured building reduces torsional forces and stress concentrations during seismic events.

Structural components and connections (A) are primarily the engineer's responsibility.

Interior partitions (B) affect non-structural behavior but are less critical to seismic response.

Site location and orientation (D) influence seismic forces but are often fixed or limited by client and site constraints.

Thus, architects significantly improve seismic safety through thoughtful spatial and structural configuration design.


ARE 5.0 PPD -- Environmental Conditions and Context, Seismic Design

The Architect's Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th Edition -- Earthquake Resistant Design

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12 comments · newest first
RO
Ronald 3 days ago
Wait, can the interior really affect seismic safety?
ME
Meaghan 8 days ago
I think A is more important. Connections are key!
SA
Salena 13 days ago
Definitely C! The layout is crucial for stability.
LU
Lucia 18 days ago
A is super important, but C really ties it all together.
JE
Jesusita 23 days ago
Wait, are we sure about that? I thought site location mattered more.
JA
Jacqueline 29 days ago
I agree with C too, it shapes how the building behaves.
RE
Reita 1 month ago
Really? I thought it was more about A.
AN
Anthony 1 month ago
Definitely C! The plan and cross-section are crucial.
IL
Ilene 1 month ago
I practiced a similar question where the focus was on structural integrity, which makes me think A) might be the best choice here.
VI
Vincent 2 months ago
I feel like site location and orientation could also play a big role in how a building withstands earthquakes, so I'm considering D) too.
FE
Felicidad 2 months ago
I'm not entirely sure, but I remember something about structural components being crucial for seismic safety. Maybe A) is the right answer?
GL
Gladys 2 months ago
I think the architect's main role is more about the overall design, so I might lean towards C) Building's plan and cross-sectional configuration.
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