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Arch Bridge

Photo of deep gorge with arch bridge in place

Yes. This is the perfect site for an arch bridge. The rock will support the abutments and no towers or piers will be needed.

Congratulations! You've solved the puzzle. You're ready to roll out the blue prints and strap on a hard hat.

As you were playing this game, you may have thought, "Gee, I wish I could combine some of these bridges—say, build a continuous beam bridge across the bay, but put a cable-stayed bridge in the middle to create a shipping channel." Well, in the real world, engineers often do exactly that, creating "hybrid bridges" that are tailor-made to a given situation.

A few words of caution. For the sake of clarity, this game has oversimplified what, in the real world of engineering, are very complex decisions and principles. To learn more, consult our resources page and, of course, your local library.

Photo: © Richard D. Strange

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