BUILDING BIG Bridge basics
Bridge Basics
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Bridges | Domes | Skyscrapers | Dams| Tunnels

Forces that act on an arch bridge


Arch Bridge: Forces
The arch is squeezed together, and this squeezing force is carried outward along the curve to the supports at each end. The supports, called abutments, push back on the arch and prevent the ends of the arch from spreading apart.


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BUILDING BIG is a coproduction of the WGBH Science Unit and Production Group, Inc., and is presented on PBS by WGBH Boston.

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