👉The primary purpose of the arches in bridge construction is to support the bridge deck and its loads by efficiently transferring weight to the supports at either end, known as abutments.

🏷Here is how the arch achieves this:

📌Load Transfer: Unlike beam bridges that push loads straight down, an arch transfers the vertical weight of the bridge and its loads both outward and downward to the abutments. 

📌 Compression: The arch shape is a curved structure that converts vertical pressure into horizontal thrust, which is then resisted by the strong abutments on either side.

📌 Stability and Strength: This design allows arch bridges to span greater distances than simple beam bridges while using less material and providing significant strength and durability.

📌 Versatility: Depending on the design, the arch can be above or below the roadway.
In a deck arch bridge (like the one pictured, the area between the deck and arch is called the spandrel.

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