An engineering student at the University of California, Berkeley, has used computer models to help the Smithsonian Institution preserve its art collection. The student, Lillian Ou, created a computer model of the Mona Lisa that allowed her to simulate the effects of different environmental conditions on the painting. She found that the painting was most susceptible to damage from changes in temperature and humidity.

Ou's model also helped her to identify the cause of the Mona Lisa's cracks. She found that the cracks were caused by the painting's wooden panel expanding and contracting due to changes in temperature and humidity.

Ou's work has helped the Smithsonian to develop new strategies for preserving the Mona Lisa and other works of art in its collection. The Smithsonian is now using climate-controlled storage facilities and humidifiers to help protect its art from damage.

Ou's work is an example of how engineering can be used to solve problems in the arts. By using computer models, engineers can help to preserve works of art and make them accessible to future generations.

Here are some additional details about Ou's work:

* Ou used a computer model called the "Mona Lisa Simulator" to simulate the effects of different environmental conditions on the painting.

* The simulator allowed her to vary the temperature, humidity, and light levels in the painting's environment.

* Ou found that the painting was most susceptible to damage from changes in temperature and humidity.

* She also found that the painting was more likely to crack when the temperature was high and the humidity was low.

* Ou's work has helped the Smithsonian to develop new strategies for preserving the Mona Lisa and other works of art in its collection.

Ou's work is a great example of how engineering can be used to solve problems in the arts. By using computer models, engineers can help to preserve works of art and make them accessible to future generations.