The idea that squeezing crystals has electrical consequences is not new. A phenomenon called piezoelectricity, which is exploited in pressure sensors and quartz watches, involves creating a voltage between the ends of a piece of crystal by applying pressure.
The John Hancock Center was completed in 1970, and its gently sloping black steel form remains one of the most-recognizable structures in Chicagoâs famed skyline. John Hancock Center The John Hancock Center (centre building) on North Michigan Avenue in Chicago. Â© Chicago Architecture Foundation A bold form was chosen for the Hancock Center. The tapered rectangular tubeâwith giant trusses on each of the four sidesâreadily shows how the building is supported.
1 A bold form was chosen for the Hancock Center. 2  The original plan called for two buildings to be built on the site. 3  The building includes a mix of residential apartments, a parking garage, and retail and office space, with lounging, dining, and observatory facilities on the 94th, 95th, and 96th floors.