suspension bridge theory

Suspension bridge theory involves understanding how the structure supports itself and resists forces. The main cables, draped over tall towers, bear the load of the bridge deck, which hangs beneath them via vertical suspenders. The cables experience tension, pulling outward, while the towers transfer those forces downward to the ground. The deck distributes the weight evenly across the cables, enabling the bridge to span long distances without extensive supports. This balance of tension and compression allows suspension bridges to be both strong and flexible, efficiently handling dynamic loads like traffic and wind.