Static loads are constant mechanical forces that do not change over time, such as the weight of a building or a parked car. Dynamic loads vary in direction, position and magnitude, such as people, traffic, earthquakes and wind. Strain rate refers to the rate at which a material deforms under stress over time. Durability is the ability of a material to last a long time without deterioration. Fatigue is structural damage caused by cyclic loading, and is a major cause of engineering failures. Failure modes and the design approach are also discussed.