Final answer:
A tall cylindrical chimney can fall due to gravity, wind force, structural failure, or an earthquake. Roofs of large structures like gymnasiums and churches are susceptible to resonance during an earthquake, which can lead to failure.
Step-by-step explanation:
A tall cylindrical chimney can fall over due to a variety of reasons, including gravity, wind force, structural failure, or an earthquake. The specific cause depends on the situation and the existing conditions impacting the chimney. For example, during an earthquake, the ground shakes and can cause the base of the chimney to move in a way that the rest of the structure cannot support, leading to a collapse.
In the case where a wrecking ball hits a tall unsupported concrete wall near the top, the wall is more likely to fall over by rotating at its base rather than falling straight down due to the leverage effect caused by the impact at a higher point. If the same force is applied at the base, the wall might collapse straight down if it's not firmly attached at the base or fall over if it's attached.
With regard to roofs of gymnasiums and churches during an earthquake, they may fail more than family homes because these structures often have larger spans without supports and are more susceptible to resonance with the earthquake's waves. This resonance can amplify the motion and cause greater damage.