Suspension Bridge

A suspension bridge is one where cables are strung across the river and the deck is attached or 'suspended' from these cables. Modern suspension bridges have two tall towers.  The cables are strung over the towers which are supporting the majority of the road's weight.

The force of compression pushes down on the suspension bridge's deck, but  the cables transfer the compression to the towers which pass the compression  down into the earth where they are standing.

The  cables, running between the towers take all the tension forces. The cables are stretched from the weight of the bridge and its traffic.

The anchorages are also under tension, but  they are held firmly to the earth.

Almost all suspension bridges have support beneath the bridge deck. This helps to stiffen the bridge and reduce swaying and rippling.  Remember the Tacoma Narrows ?