Bridges are built to carry people and cars safely across water, valleys, and other obstacles. Engineers design different types of bridges depending on how far they need to span and what they need to cross. The three most common types are beam bridges, arch bridges, and suspension bridges.
18
Beam bridges are the simplest. They work like a plank of wood placed across a stream. The beam rests on supports at each end. Arch bridges use a curved design that pushes weight down into strong supports. Suspension bridges use thick cables to hang the roadway from tall towers. These cables spread the weight across the entire bridge. The Golden Gate Bridge in California is a famous suspension bridge that spans more than one mile!
41
1
What is the purpose of a bridge?
ATo make cities look beautiful
BTo carry people and cars safely across water, valleys, and other obstacles
CTo provide shade from the sun
DTo stop water from flowing
2
Which type of bridge is the simplest?
ASuspension bridges
BArch bridges
CCable bridges
DBeam bridges
3
How do suspension bridges support weight?
AThey use a curved design
BThey rest on supports at each end
CThey use thick cables to hang the roadway from tall towers
DThey float on water
4
What text feature would help you understand the three types of bridges better?
AA glossary
BA diagram or illustration showing the three types of bridges
CA table of contents
DBold words