Intro to Bridges Flashcards
What is an abutment?
A mass, as of masonry, receiving the arch, beam, truss, etc., at each end of a bridge.
What is an arch bridge?
A bridge that forms the shape of an arch.
What is a beam?
A long, rigid, horizontal support member of a structure.
What is a beam bridge?
A bridge that consists of beams supported by columns (piers, towers).
What is a column?
A long, rigid, vertical (upright) support member of a structure.
What is compression?
A pushing force that tends to shorten objects.
What is a deck?
The ‘top’ of the bridge on which we drive or walk.
What is an engineer?
A person who applies her/his understanding of science and mathematics to creating things for the benefit of humanity and our world.
What is a pier?
The ‘column’ of a bridge.
What is a span?
The length of a bridge between two piers.
What is a suspension bridge?
A bridge in which the deck is hung from cables.
What is tension?
A pulling or stretching force that tends to lengthen objects.
What are the PRIMARY elements in design, engineering, and construction?
The PRIMARY elements are cable, arch, columns, beams, trusses, and frames. (FACCBT)
How can the PRIMARY elements be used in bridge construction?
They can be used in combination to create the tension and compression necessary to support the needs of the bridge construction.
What factors do the PRIMARY elements support in bridge construction?
They support load, environment, spanning distance, etc.
How is compression created in arches?
Arches primarily experience compressive forces. The curved shape allows them to transfer loads down to the supports, effectively handling weight and maintaining stability.
How is tension created in an arch?
Some tension can occur at the top of the arch where it connects to the structure, especially under uneven loading.
What happens to cables when subjected to compression?
Cables can buckle if subjected to compression.
What is the primary force that cables are designed to handle?
Cables are primarily under tension, carrying loads by pulling.
How do cables transfer weight?
Cables efficiently transfer weight from one point to another, such as in suspension bridges.
What is the primary load that columns carry?
Columns primarily carry compressive loads and transfer weight from beams or roofs down to the foundation.
Can columns experience tension?
Yes, columns can experience tension if they are part of a structural system that requires them to resist pulling forces.
What part of a beam usually experiences compression?
The top side of a beam usually experiences compression when a load is applied.
What part of a beam typically experiences tension?
The bottom side of a beam typically experiences tension as the material stretches under load.
