Arches or Beams: Why Arches Hold More Weight on Pasta Bridges

  • Thread starter jadoreparis30
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In summary, arches hold more weight on pasta bridges due to their unique structural design and ability to handle compressive forces. This is in contrast to beams, which are designed for tensile forces and are less equipped to handle heavy weight. Arches also offer several benefits in bridge construction, such as even weight distribution and resilience to natural phenomena. However, they may require external support during construction and may not be suitable for all types of bridges. The effectiveness of arches may also depend on the materials used.
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jadoreparis30
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Why do pasta bridges made with arches or triangular peaks hold more weight than those made with a flat beam? Assume the weight is attached to the base or deck of the bridge.
 
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An arch is inherently the strongest structure in nature, and a triangular arrangement is a reasonable approximation thereof. It has to do with how stresses are distributed. An engineer should be along shortly to give you more information.
 
  • #3
That does make sense. Thank you for the input!
 

1. How do arches hold more weight on pasta bridges?

Arches hold more weight on pasta bridges because of their unique structural design. The curved shape of an arch spreads the weight of the bridge evenly, allowing for a greater distribution of weight and a stronger support system. This is known as the arch's ability to handle compressive forces.

2. Why can't beams hold as much weight on pasta bridges?

Beams are unable to hold as much weight on pasta bridges because they are designed to handle tensile forces, or forces that pull or stretch the structure. This makes them more susceptible to bending or breaking under heavy weight compared to arches, which are better equipped to handle compressive forces.

3. Are there any other benefits to using arches in bridge construction?

Yes, there are several benefits to using arches in bridge construction. In addition to their ability to hold more weight, arches also distribute weight more evenly, making them ideal for spanning long distances. They can also withstand natural phenomena such as earthquakes and strong winds better than other bridge designs.

4. Are there any disadvantages to using arches in bridge construction?

One potential disadvantage of using arches in bridge construction is the need for an external support system during construction. This is because the arch's curved shape makes it unstable until it is complete. Additionally, arches may be more expensive and time-consuming to build compared to other bridge designs.

5. Can arches be used in all types of bridge construction?

While arches are commonly used in bridge construction, they may not be suitable for all types of bridges. They are best suited for medium to long-span bridges and may not be as effective for short-span bridges or bridges with complex designs. Additionally, the type of materials used may also impact the effectiveness of arches in bridge construction.

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