Disc 1. Learning to see and understand structure
The science of structure: forces in balance
Internal forces, stress, and strength
From wood to steel: properties of materials
Building up: columns and buckling
Building across: beams and bending.
Disc 2. Trusses: the power of the triangle
Cables and arches: the power of the parabola
Loads and structural systems
Egypt and Greece: pyramids to the Parthenon
The glory of Rome in arches and vaults.
Disc 3. Three great domes: Rome to the Renaissance
How iron and science transformed arch bridges
Suspension bridges: the battle of the cable
Suspension bridges: the challenge of wind
Great cantilever bridges: tragedy and triumph
The rise of iron- and steel-framed buildings.
Disc 4. The great skyscraper race
The beauty and versatility of modern concrete
Amazing thin shells: strength from curvature
Vast roof systems of iron and steel
The incredible lightness of tension structures
Strategies for understanding any structure.