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Bending Bridges

CSEF · 2004 Structural Capability & Strength of Materials (Junior Division Only)

Jacob T. Roulston · Colton (Walter) Middle School, Monterey

Overview

Objectives/Goals To find which bridge, the arc bridge, the span bridge, or the cable-stayed bridge supports the most weight. Methods/Materials 1. Gather materials 2. Make span bridge 3. Put weights on it until it collapses and take pictures 4. Record the amount of weight it holds in scientific notepad 5. Make arc bridge 6. Repeat steps 3 and 4 7. Make cable-stayed bridge 8. Repeat steps 3 and 4 9. Repeat steps 2-8 one more time Balsa wood, wood glue, exacto-knife, ruler, builders square, drill, plastic lid, pruning scissors, coping saw, picture frame vise, rasp, awl, picture hanging wire, weights (various sizes), scientific note pad, pencil, and digital camera. Results The results of my experiment were: The arc bridge held an average 120 ounces, the span bridge held an average of 54 ounces, and the cable-stayed bridge held an average of 52 ounces. Conclusions/Discussion My hypothesis was supported. To make my experiment better I could have used different materials on my cable-stayed bridge.

Summary statement

I was trying to determine which bridge type supports the most weight.

Help received

Dad helped construct bridges; Mom bought materials and helped with research.

Competition history

  • CSEF 2004 Structural Capability & Strength of Materials (Junior Division Only) · Entry J1814

Resources

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