Purdue University Recreates 9/11 in Science-Driven Animation

A Purdue University research team has developed a computer simulation of the Sept. 11, 2001 attack on the World Trade Center with an aim to helping build stronger buildings in the future.

Although there have been many graphical interpretations of the incident made, the Purdue team said its model takes into account the actual architectural dynamics of the buildings as they were hit.

"The crashes and computer models you often see on television are not scientifically accurate," said Purdue computer science professor Voicu Popescu, who, with Mete Sozen, a professor of structural engineering, developed the model.

The Purdue simulation took years to create, including "weeks of supercomputer time over a number of years to simulate the event in many credible angles of impact of the aircraft," said Sozen.

Like other simulations, the Purdue model shows that the heat of burning jet fuel rather than the impact itself caused the most damage to the buildings. The researchers said they hope their new model will help generate ideas for new structural support systems in the future.  

The animation can be viewed from Purdue University's website at the link below.

Read More:

About the Author

Paul McCloskey is contributing editor of Syllabus.

Featured

  • student reading a book with a brain, a protective hand, a computer monitor showing education icons, gears, and leaves

    4 Steps to Responsible AI Implementation

    Researchers at the University of Kansas Center for Innovation, Design & Digital Learning (CIDDL) have published a new framework for the responsible implementation of artificial intelligence at all levels of education.

  • server racks, a human head with a microchip, data pipes, cloud storage, and analytical symbols

    OpenAI, Oracle Expand AI Infrastructure Partnership

    OpenAI and Oracle have announced they will develop an additional 4.5 gigawatts of data center capacity, expanding their artificial intelligence infrastructure partnership as part of the Stargate Project, a joint venture among OpenAI, Oracle, and Japan's SoftBank Group that aims to deploy 10 gigawatts of computing capacity over four years.

  • mathematical formulas

    McGraw Hill Intros AI-Powered ALEKS for Calculus

    McGraw Hill has expanded its lineup of ALEKS digital learning products with ALEKS for Calculus, bringing AI-powered personalized learning support to the calculus classroom.

  • glowing digital brain above a chessboard with data charts and flowcharts

    Why AI Strategy Matters (and Why Not Having One Is Risky)

    If your institution hasn't started developing an AI strategy, you are likely putting yourself and your stakeholders at risk, particularly when it comes to ethical use, responsible pedagogical and data practices, and innovative exploration.