Using Eigenvalues in Bridges
A main theory for why this bridge collapsed is based on natural frequencies and resonance. The resonance is the natural vibration that bridge experiences. In other words, whenever the bridge moves, it oscillates according to a formula that is unique to itself. It just so happens that with this bridge, the natural frequency was close to the surrounding winds which caused the bridge to oscillate so violently that it caused its own destruction. Based on the system of equations the bridge was modeled after the natural frequency is the Eigenvalue of the smallest magnitude of oscillation. For that reason Eigenvalues are heavily relied upon by engineers to help prevent disasters. Because the Eigenvector does not change direction the value remains true for when the oscillation intensifies.