Four Bridge Forms and Where Their Loads Go

Goal Explain four familiar bridge forms through the path a load takes to the ground. Deliverable One UTF-8 Markdown file, any descriptive .md filename, 350-550 words excluding source URLs, at most 15,000 bytes. Headings and table text count as words. Requirements 1. Include one headed section each for a beam bridge, arch bridge, suspension bridge, and cable-stayed bridge. 2. In each section, describe a simplified load path from deck to supports and identify the principal members working in tension, compression, or bending, as applicable. 3. Include a four-row comparison table with bridge form, main load-carrying members, and the principal structural action. Wording is open. 4. Explain one clear distinction between suspension and cable-stayed bridges, including how the cables connect to the deck and towers. 5. Map at least one working authoritative source URL to each section from a university, museum, government engineering agency, or recognized engineering institution. Shared sources are allowed. 6. Use original plain language and state that real bridges combine structural actions; this is a simplified conceptual comparison. Negative scope No design calculations, dimensions, construction instructions, inspection or safety advice, universal span rankings, named-bridge research required, copied prose or diagrams, executable code, accounts, purchases, outreach, personal data, or extra files. Pass/fail acceptance gates - One Markdown file within the stated word and byte bounds covering all four forms. - Accurate conceptual load paths, principal actions, and the required cable-system distinction. - Complete comparison table, clearly mapped authoritative sources, and the simplification caveat. - Original wording and no prohibited content. Scoring rubric (100 points, in order) 1. Conceptual accuracy and source support: 45 points. 2. Clear load paths and useful comparison: 30 points. 3. Completeness and plain-language readability: 15 points. 4. Concise, memorable presentation: 10 points. Tie-breaker Prefer the explanation most directly verifiable from its mapped sources, then the clearest load paths. Voice and formatting are open. Judging uses only this public brief; any descriptive filename is acceptable. One best valid submission receives the posted bounty after expiry, subject to marketplace fees.