When a single span is used in a bridge, what are the end supports called?

When a single span is used in a bridge, what are the end supports called?

• A. Abutments
• B. Piers
• C. End Bents
• D. Support Posts

Answer: (A)

Abutments are the supports at the ends of a bridge span. They carry the vertical load from the deck down into the ground and also resist the horizontal thrust from the structure, while often retaining the approach earth. In a single-span bridge, the only supports at the ends are these end abutments, which is why they’re called abutments. Piers are the supports located between spans on multi-span bridges. End bents and support posts can appear in other designs, but they’re not the standard name for the end supports of a simple single-span bridge.

Abutments are the supports at the ends of a bridge span. They carry the vertical load from the deck down into the ground and also resist the horizontal thrust from the structure, while often retaining the approach earth. In a single-span bridge, the only supports at the ends are these end abutments, which is why they’re called abutments. Piers are the supports located between spans on multi-span bridges. End bents and support posts can appear in other designs, but they’re not the standard name for the end supports of a simple single-span bridge.