The spelling of "suspension bridge" can be a bit tricky due to the multiple consonant blends and silent letters. The word is pronounced /səˈspɛnʃən brɪdʒ/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first "s" is pronounced as "suh," the "p" and "n" are pronounced as separate consonants, and the "e" is silent. The "s" in "bridge" is pronounced as "zh" and the final "ge" is silent. A suspension bridge refers to a type of bridge where the deck is suspended from cables or ropes that are anchored to tall towers.
A suspension bridge is a type of bridge that is supported by vertical suspender cables that are hung from tall towers or pylons. The main characteristic of a suspension bridge is that the weight of the bridge is primarily carried by these cables, which are anchored at each end of the bridge and connected to the main load-bearing elements.
The design of a suspension bridge allows for the deck or roadway to hang freely between the towers, without any intermediate supports. This creates a visually stunning suspended appearance. The main load-bearing component of a suspension bridge is the main cables, which are usually made of high-tensile-strength steel wires that are tightly bundled together. These cables are securely anchored into the ground at each end of the bridge.
Suspension bridges are known for their ability to span long distances, making them suitable for connecting two distant points over water bodies or deep valleys. They can often reach lengths of several kilometers. The towers or pylons of suspension bridges are typically tall and sturdy structures that support the weight of the suspended deck through the suspender cables. The deck may be made of various materials, including concrete or steel.
Suspension bridges are renowned for their strength, flexibility, and aesthetic appeal. They are engineered to withstand various external forces, such as wind, earthquakes, and the weight of traffic or pedestrians. The flexibility of the bridge allows it to sway and absorb the forces acting upon it. Suspension bridges have played a crucial role in modern transportation infrastructure, enabling efficient and safe travel across challenging terrains.
A bridge having the roadway supported by chains passing over two or more high piers or columns, and well secured below and at the ends.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The term suspension bridge can be traced back to the Latin word suspendere, which means to hang up or to hang from. The term later evolved to suspensio in Middle English, which signifies suspension or hanging. Combining this concept with the word bridge, which refers to a structure that connects two points over an obstacle, created the term suspension bridge.