Civil Engineering Professional Engineer Practice Exam

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Prepare for the Civil Engineering Professional Engineer Test. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions, complete with hints and detailed explanations. Achieve success on your exam!

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What structural feature do arch bridges rely on for support?

Flexibility of materials
Strength and rigidity of the arch
Weight of the bridge itself
Solid foundation only

The correct answer is: Strength and rigidity of the arch

Arch bridges rely on the strength and rigidity of the arch itself for support. The primary structural feature of an arch bridge is its curved shape, which allows it to effectively distribute loads across its structure. When a load is applied to the bridge, the curved arch transfers the weight into horizontal thrust, which is then directed down into the supports at either end of the arch. This design efficiently manages both vertical and horizontal forces, making arch bridges particularly strong and stable. While flexibility of materials, the weight of the bridge, and a solid foundation all play roles in the overall stability and performance of a bridge, they are not the primary structural features that provide the essential support in arch bridges. The unique geometry of the arch is what allows these bridges to span large distances without requiring extensive additional support, demonstrating the engineering principles behind this classic bridge design.