describe the diffrence between:

a) A beam bridge and a suspension bridge;

b)an arch bridge and a cantilever bridge;

c)a truss bridge and a cantilever bridge;

Thank you for using the Jiskha Homework Help Forum. This has been interesting and I think you will like the following sites:

1. http://www.matsuo-bridge.co.jp/english/bridges/index.shtm

2. (Broken Link Removed)

3. http://library.thinkquest.org/J0113129/DB~1.HTM

4. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bridge (includes cantilever)

a) A beam bridge and a suspension bridge:

A beam bridge is the simplest type of bridge that is supported by horizontal beams. It consists of a horizontal beam, called the deck, which is supported by vertical columns or piers. Beam bridges are usually made of steel or concrete and are commonly used for short spans, such as highway overpasses or pedestrian bridges.

On the other hand, a suspension bridge is a type of bridge that is supported by cables hanging from tall towers. The deck of a suspension bridge hangs from these cables, which are anchored into the ground. The weight of the deck is transferred to the cables, which in turn transfer the load to vertical towers. Suspension bridges are designed to handle long spans and are often used for large river crossings or in areas with challenging terrain.

To understand the differences between these two types of bridges in more detail, it is recommended to visit the provided websites. These websites provide illustrations, diagrams, and detailed explanations of beam bridges and suspension bridges.

b) An arch bridge and a cantilever bridge:

An arch bridge is a type of bridge that is supported by a curved arch. The arch transfers the weight of the bridge and the load it carries to its abutments, which are the supports at each end of the arch. Arch bridges are usually made of stone, concrete, or steel and are known for their ability to span long distances. They are commonly used in both road and railway constructions.

On the other hand, a cantilever bridge is a type of bridge that is supported by projecting beams or structures that are anchored on one end. Cantilever bridges are built by extending two arms from each side of a central support. The weight of the bridge and the load it carries is transferred to the central support and then to the ground. Cantilever bridges are commonly used for long or large-span structures, such as bridges over wide waterways or deep valleys.

To get a more thorough understanding of these two types of bridges, it is beneficial to visit the provided websites. These resources offer visuals, diagrams, and detailed explanations of arch bridges and cantilever bridges.

c) A truss bridge and a cantilever bridge:

A truss bridge is a type of bridge that is made up of interconnected triangles, forming a lattice structure. The truss structure provides support and distributes the weight of the bridge and the load it carries. Truss bridges can be made of wood, steel, or concrete and are commonly used for medium to long spans. They are known for their strength and efficiency in using materials.

On the other hand, a cantilever bridge is a type of bridge that is supported by projecting beams or structures that are anchored at one end. Unlike a truss bridge, a cantilever bridge does not rely on a truss structure but rather on the principle of the cantilever. Cantilever bridges are built by extending two arms from each side of a central support, and the weight of the bridge and the load it carries is transferred to the central support and then to the ground.

To deepen your understanding of these two types of bridges, it is advisable to explore the provided websites. These resources provide visual aids, diagrams, and comprehensive explanations of truss bridges and cantilever bridges.