Bridges

Front

What force helps an arch bridge support its live and dead loads?

Back

compression

Answer explanation

An arch bridge primarily supports its live and dead loads through compression. The arch shape allows forces to be distributed along the curve, effectively transferring weight down into the supports.

Front

The part of the bridge for traffic.

Back

deck

Answer explanation

The 'deck' of a bridge is the surface that supports traffic, making it the correct answer. The foundation supports the structure, while cables and towers are part of the support system, not the traffic surface.

Front

What force or forces help a suspension bridge support its loads?

Back

compression and tension

Answer explanation

A suspension bridge uses both compression and tension to support its loads. The towers experience compression from the weight of the bridge and the cables experience tension as they hold up the bridge deck, balancing the forces.

Front

What caused Bridge B to collapse under its own weight?

Back

the dead load

Answer explanation

The bridge collapsed due to the dead load, which refers to the weight of the bridge itself. This load can exceed the structural capacity, leading to failure, especially if not properly accounted for in the design.

Front

What is tension?

Back

a pulling force

Answer explanation

Tension is defined as a pulling force that acts along a rope, string, or similar object. It is the force that tries to stretch or elongate the material, making 'a pulling force' the correct choice.

Front

What is compression?

Back

a squeezing force

Answer explanation

Compression refers to a squeezing force that reduces the volume of an object. It contrasts with other forces like pulling or twisting, making 'a squeezing force' the correct choice.

Front

What is a dead load?

Back

The weight of the structure.

Answer explanation

A dead load refers to the weight of the structure itself, including all its permanent components. This is crucial for structural engineering as it helps determine the load-bearing capacity needed.

Front

What is a live load?

Back

The weight of anything not permanently attached to the structure.

Answer explanation

A live load refers to the weight of anything not permanently attached to a structure, such as furniture, people, and vehicles. This distinguishes it from dead loads, which are the weight of the structure itself.

Front

What are the components of a suspension bridge?

Back

towers, cables, a deck, and anchors

Answer explanation

A suspension bridge consists of towers that support cables, which hold the deck (the roadway). Anchors secure the cables at both ends, making 'towers, cables, a deck, and anchors' the correct components.

Front

What are the components of a beam bridge?

Back

columns and beams

Answer explanation

A beam bridge consists of horizontal beams supported by vertical columns. The correct choice, 'columns and beams', accurately describes these essential components, while the other options refer to different types of structures.