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Suspension bridges are
Movable bridges
Suitable for long spans
Suitable for short spans
Used for navigable channels
Suitable for long spans
Suspension bridges are structural systems primarily designed to span extremely long distances by transferring loads through main tension cables anchored at both ends. They are the most efficient bridge type for crossing wide rivers, deep gorges, or sea channels where intermediate supports (piers) are impractical or impossible to construct.
Suspension bridges are structural systems primarily designed to span extremely long distances by transferring loads through main tension cables anchored at both ends. They are the most efficient bridge type for crossing wide rivers, deep gorges, or sea channels where intermediate supports (piers) are impractical or impossible to construct.
TmaxтАЛ=8hwL2тАЛ тАФ Maximum cable tension where w is load/length, L is span, and h is sag.
H=8hwL2тАЛ тАФ Horizontal component of cable tension.
The principle relies on the main cables hanging from towers under tension, which support the bridge deck via vertical suspender cables. The deck load is converted into axial tension in the main cables, which is then transferred to large concrete anchorages located at the bridge abutments. This cable-stayed mechanism allows for minimal obstruction of the space below the bridge, making them ideal for shipping lanes.
Uses high-tensile steel cables to carry structural loads.
The deck acts as a stiffening girder to resist vibrations and aerodynamic forces (like wind).
Span length is constrained primarily by the material strength of the cables.
Very flexible compared to truss or arch bridges, requiring careful aerodynamic design.
Ability to achieve very long spans.
Minimal interference with navigable channels below.
Aesthetically pleasing and iconic structural profile.
High sensitivity to wind-induced vibrations (flutter).
Requires massive, expensive anchorage foundations.
Higher maintenance cost for long-term cable protection.
Crossing wide estuaries or deep bays.
Long-span highway or railway links.
Suspension bridges are the preferred choice for spans exceeding 1000 meters.
Option C is incorrect because short spans are more economically served by beam or slab bridges due to lower foundation costs.
B is correct тАФ Suspension bridges are specifically engineered to provide the structural efficiency required for very long spans.
In competitive exams, remember that 'Suspension = Long span' and 'Cable-stayed = Intermediate to long span'; always link suspension design to the high tension capacity of steel cables.