In your journal, you wrote about calculating the amount of concrete needed for a building project. You used the relationship between the volume of a prism and the volume of a pyramid. 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. Then read two of your peers’ posts. Respond to two of your peers: For each post, explain why the pyramid or prism is a better shape for the building. How would you improve on the identified pyramid-shaped building? How would you improve on the alternate prism-shaped building?

Question

In your journal, you wrote about calculating the amount of concrete needed for a building project. You used the relationship between the volume of a prism and the volume of a pyramid. 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. Then read two of your peers’ posts. Respond to two of your peers: For each post, explain why the pyramid or prism is a better shape for the building. How would you improve on the identified pyramid-shaped building? How would you improve on the alternate prism-shaped building?

Answer 1

Building: The Louvre Pyramid in Paris, France

Architect: I.M. Pei

The architect chose a pyramid shape for the Louvre Pyramid as a way to modernize and complement the historic Louvre Museum. The pyramid is a symbol of both strength and innovation. It serves as the main entrance to the museum, creating a harmonious blend of modernity and tradition. The pyramid shape also allows for natural light to filter into the underground spaces, creating a unique and dynamic atmosphere.

Designing the Louvre Pyramid as a prism would drastically change its appearance and functionality. A prism is a three-dimensional shape with flat, rectangular sides. If the Louvre Pyramid were designed as a prism, it would lose its iconic shape and architectural significance. The change in shape would also affect the flow of natural light, as prisms do not have the same light-filtering capabilities as pyramids.

The construction of the building would also be impacted by the change in shape. A prism shape may require different materials and structural support to maintain its integrity. Additionally, the use of the building would be altered, as the unique design and symbolism of the pyramid shape are integral to its function as the main entrance to the museum.

Overall, the Louvre Pyramid's pyramid shape is better suited for the building due to its symbolic significance, functionality, and design. To improve on the Louvre Pyramid, I would focus on enhancing the sustainability features of the building, such as incorporating green technologies for energy efficiency. As for an alternate prism-shaped building, I would suggest incorporating more windows and open spaces to maximize natural light and create a more modern aesthetic.