Civil Engineering Professional Engineer Practice Exam 2025 – All-in-One Comprehensive Guide to Exam Success!

The design of truss bridges allows them to effectively carry heavier loads over longer spans due to their geometrical configuration and the distribution of forces throughout the structure. Truss bridges consist of interconnected triangles, which are known for their strength and stability. This triangulation helps to evenly distribute load across the structure, and because of this efficient load distribution, truss bridges can span greater distances without the need for intermediate supports.

Additionally, the materials used in truss construction, often high-tensile steel or reinforced concrete, contribute to their ability to withstand significant forces. The design minimizes the bending moments within the bridge by converting loads into axial forces within the members of the truss, which can be managed effectively by the materials. This specific arrangement and construction technique enable truss bridges to support heavier traffic loads than some other bridge types, making them ideal for railways and highways.

Other possibilities like only carrying light loads, being less stable, or requiring more maintenance do not accurately reflect the engineering principles and capabilities of truss bridges. In contrast, they excel in load-bearing efficiency and structural stability, hence their widespread use in civil engineering.