What is the purpose of detailing to maintain energy dissipation in seismic design?

• A. To increase stiffness.
• B. To allow ductile response and energy dissipation, preventing brittle collapse.
• C. To reduce reinforcement.
• D. To shorten construction time.

Answer: (B)

Energy dissipation in seismic design comes from allowing the structure to yield in a controlled, ductile way so it can absorb earthquake energy rather than fail suddenly. When detailing is done to promote ductility, plastic hinges form in designated locations and the members dissipate energy through repeated inelastic cycles. This keeps peak forces from driving a brittle, catastrophic collapse and helps the building maintain enough stability after yielding to survive strong shaking. Proper detailing also ensures confinement and adequate reinforcement so the ductile response can develop safely. Increasing stiffness, reducing reinforcement, or focusing on construction speed doesn’t provide this energy-dissipating behavior.