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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Why might arch bridges be impractical in certain areas?

Limited structural integrity
Poor aesthetic value
Loose soil or minimal rock
High construction costs

The correct answer is: Loose soil or minimal rock

Arch bridges rely on the structural integrity of their curved design, which effectively distributes loads over the supporting foundations. However, one of the critical factors affecting the practicality of arch bridges is the load-bearing capacity and ground stability of the site where they are constructed. In areas with loose soil or minimal rock, the foundation necessary to support the substantial thrust loads imposed by the arch may be inadequate. This can lead to instability or failure of the bridge, making it unsuitable for locations with such geological conditions. Additionally, the construction of an arch bridge often requires deeper foundations and more extensive groundwork in areas with poor soil conditions, which can complicate the engineering and increase the time and resources needed for construction. Therefore, arch bridges may not be a practical choice for areas where the soil cannot reliably support the structural demands of such design.