Arch bridge

How does the exhibit work?

Build an arch-shaped bridge with the blocks.

What is the science behind it?

Put the two large helping pieces in position first, then build a bridge on top of them with the other blocks. Do you dare to step onto the bridge without the two supporting pieces in place? Give it a try. See? It’s easy!
There are many types of bridge. For example, there are suspension bridges, drawbridges and arch bridges. You’ve just built an arch bridge

When you stand on top, your weight presses down on the top block. That compressive force is distributed to the blocks next to it on the left and right. They then exert force on the blocks next to them. Ultimately, the support points (the sides of the bridge) absorb everything. The helping pieces are therefore no longer necessary.

Arch bridges in nature

Humans aren’t the only ones who make arch bridges: nature does it too.

Do you want to see a lot of them in one place? Then visit Arches National Park in the United States. You will find more than 2,000 natural bridges there. Wind, water and ice formed them over millions of years.

Arch bridges in an aqueduct

The Romans realised that arch bridges like these work well. You can see them in the aqueducts they built. The Romans used these aqueducts to transport water to cities.