In these readings, Ching explains to us how force and its uses are applied when it comes to architecture. For certain structures, force is extremely important for supporting weight along with other objects that may be above it. He also explains this with physics using vectors, and not only explains how it works, he also explains why it works. For example, he says with newtons third law of motion, for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. so, with structures this law is applied, and a good example of this would be a column along a plate.if you put one column under a massive plate, chances are that the column would be crushed, or it will buckle. However, if you distribute the weight equally with lets say four columns, chances are the plate’s force and the columns force’s would balance, or cancel each other out, which would make you reach the state of equilibrium. These readings all explain how a plate, column, arch, beam, frame, vaults, domes, and joints work under the use of force.
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Jonathan,
This is a good summary, but could be a bit more robust with more specific examples of forces acting on structural elements. Your example of the plate and column is about distribution of the forces and the particular problem of buckling in columns is a good one, but seek with each summary to be as accurate in your description of structural concepts as you can. (A large column can support the plate if properly sized. See this famous example: https://archpaper.com/2017/08/johnson-wax-tours/ )
Prof. Montgomery