2026 C8A: Brooklyn Bridge Comprehension Challenge

Why were European suspension bridges collapsing in the 1800s?

• They were not tall enough.

• Their cables broke during bad weather and heavy loads.

• They were too expensive to maintain.

Who was John Roebling, and what did he suggest?

• A city official who wanted to build a new park.

• A German-American engineer who suggested building a large suspension bridge.

• A worker who helped dig the riverbed.

What made Roebling's bridge design special?

• It was painted in bright colors.

• It was a combination of two types of bridges.

• It didn’t need any towers.

How long was Roebling’s bridge planned to be?

• 200 meters

• 480 meters

• 1,000 meters

What material did Roebling plan to use for the bridge's cables?

• Hemp rope

• Wooden planks

• Metal wires

What happened to John Roebling while checking the site?

• He fell into the river.

• He was hit by a falling rock.

• A boat crushed his foot, leading to his death.

Who took over the project after John Roebling died?

• His son, Washington Roebling.

• A group of city engineers.

• His wife, Emily Roebling.

What was a pneumatic caisson, and why was it important?

• A tool used to paint the bridge.

• A type of crane used to lift heavy stones.

• An airtight box that allowed workers to dig underwater.

What was 'the bends,' and who was affected by it?

• A type of cold that affected the workers.

• A sickness from working underwater that affected Washington Roebling.

• A disease spread by rats on the worksite.

When did the Brooklyn Bridge finally open?

• 1867

• 1877

• 1883