Physics of Truss Bridges

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Questions and Answers

What geometric shape is most crucial for the strength and stability of a truss bridge?

  • Triangle (correct)
  • Rectangle
  • Square
  • Circle

Which structural component of a truss bridge directly bears the load of traffic and forms the surface for roads or railway tracks?

  • Floor beams
  • Deck (correct)
  • Vertical members
  • Stringers

Truss bridges are engineered to effectively counteract which pair of opposing forces that bridges typically experience?

  • Friction and gravity
  • Compression and tension (correct)
  • Shear and torsion
  • Bending and torque

What primary advantage do truss bridges offer in terms of construction and material usage compared to some other bridge designs?

<p>Lightweight construction leading to lower initial costs (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a truss bridge, what is the primary role of diagonal members within the panels formed by vertical members and chords?

<p>To divide square panels into triangles for enhanced stability (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is cited as a significant drawback of truss bridges in terms of long-term management?

<p>The substantial expenses associated with continuous maintenance. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

For truss bridges to function safely and effectively, what critical aspect of their creation must be ensured?

<p>Flawless and precise planning throughout the design stage. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Compared to some alternative bridge designs, what is noted as a potential disadvantage regarding the physical footprint of truss bridges?

<p>They occupy a larger ground area, limiting their applicability in certain locations. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

To observe the Ikitsuki Bridge, recognized as the world's longest truss overpass, in which country would an individual need to travel?

<p>Japan (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In which state of the United States can someone view the Astoria-Megler Bridge, identified as the country's longest truss bridge?

<p>Oregon (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Triangle

A strong, rigid shape formed by three sides and three angles. Its stability makes it ideal for structural applications.

Truss Bridge

A type of bridge that uses a network of connected triangles to distribute weight and resist forces.

Floor Beams (Bottom Chord)

Horizontal beams that form the bottom part of the bridge.

Diagonal Members

Diagonal members that connect the top and bottom chords of a truss bridge, forming triangles for strength.

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Tension Force

A force that pulls or stretches an object, like when wind is pushing on a bridge.

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Truss Bridge Maintenance

Truss bridges require regular inspections and repairs to maintain their structural integrity.

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Truss Bridge Design

A poorly designed truss bridge can be unsafe and prone to collapse.

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Space Requirements

Truss bridges often occupy more space than other bridge types due to their structural components.

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Longest Truss Bridge (World)

The Ikitsuki Bridge in Nagasaki, Japan, is recognized as the world's longest truss overpass.

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Longest Truss Bridge (USA)

The Astoria-Megler Bridge in Astoria, Oregon, holds the title for the longest truss bridge in the United States.

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Study Notes

Strong Triangles

  • Triangles are the strongest shapes. When pushed, squares bend and break, circles squish, but triangles resist collapse due to their angles.
  • This principle forms the basis of truss bridges.

Truss Bridge Components

  • Bottom Chord: Floor beams form the base of the bridge.
  • Stringers: Long, supporting beams beneath the deck.
  • Deck: The road or tracks sit atop this layer.
  • Vertical Members: Upright poles creating panels.
  • Diagonal Members: Diagonally placed members form triangles within panels, crucial for handling compression and tension.
  • Upper Chord: Struts form the top of the bridge; additional bracing creates more triangles, preventing swaying.

Truss Bridge Advantages

  • Strength: Connected triangles provide extra support compared to single beams.
  • Versatility: Can be built in various locations and withstand harsh conditions (e.g., mountain roads).
  • Lightweight: Lower initial building costs due to less material needed.

Potential Drawbacks of Truss Bridges

  • Maintenance: Require significant maintenance to ensure continued safety.
  • Design Complexity: Precise engineering critical for stability; errors can lead to unsafe structures.
  • Space Requirements: Occupy more space than alternative bridge designs.

Examples of Truss Bridges

  • Ikitsuki Bridge (Japan): Longest truss overpass globally (over 1,300 feet).
  • Astoria-Megler Bridge (USA): Potential example of longest truss bridge in the US.

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