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Hot weather causes the metal the bridges are made of to heat up and expand. If there was no space for them to expand then the bridge would either crack it's foundations or tear itself to pieces.

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15y ago

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What are some structures that contain gaps to prevent them from buckling in hot weather?

One common structure with gaps to prevent buckling in hot weather is long bridges. The expansion joints in bridges allow them to expand and contract with temperature changes, preventing buckling. Another example is railway tracks, which have small gaps between the rails to accommodate thermal expansion and prevent buckling in hot weather.


Why small gaps are left in between two adjacent pieces of railway track?

These gaps are thermal expansion joints, they prevent the rails from buckling when they get hot in the summer. Although modern welded rail only has these gaps every mile or so to reduce the vibration and noise of the wheel crossing them (instead of every 40 feet on unwelded rail). All construction must provide for thermal expansion (e.g. bridges have thermal expansion joints, concrete road paving has thermal expansion grooves).


Why do roads have the gaps between the large pieces of concrete?

They are expansion gaps that allow for the expansion and contraction of the concrete.


What are expansion gaps?

Expansion gaps are the controlled gaps between the structure. The gaps purpose is to compensate and go with the changes of the structure overtime.For example: Materials such as concrete shrink overtime and clay expand slowly. So, it is needed for the structure to have expansion gaps to avoid damages.


Why are small gaps left between the joints of concrete slabs on bridges?

Small gaps are left between the joints of concrete slabs on bridges to accommodate thermal expansion and contraction. As temperatures change, concrete can expand and shrink, and these gaps help prevent cracking or other structural damage. Additionally, the joints allow for water drainage and reduce the risk of freeze-thaw cycles damaging the concrete. Overall, these gaps are essential for maintaining the integrity and longevity of the bridge structure.


Does concrete expand?

yes, that is why they put expansion joints on bridges. (: your welcomeyes, that is why they put expansion joints on bridges. (: your welcome


Why is it that railways tracks laid with gaps in between their end?

The gaps between rails allow for expansion from heat. The space for expansion prebents buckling.


Why do metal bridges have gaps at one end?

So it can expand


Why do steal bridges have gaps on them?

The gaps allow the steal to expand as the day gets hotter, and prevent the steal from buckling.


Why do big bridges have small gap in them?

Bridges, along with many other structural elements, expand (get wider and longer) when heated by the climate or by the Sun. If the bridge decks were fit tightly together, the heat expansion would cause them to buckle up and create a serious hazard to vehicles crossing. The gaps let the bridge expand into them, and nothing buckles.


What Examples of structures that contain gaps to prevent them buckling in hot weather?

Structures like bridges often incorporate expansion joints to accommodate thermal expansion and prevent buckling in hot weather. Buildings may include control joints in their walls and pavements to allow for movement without compromising structural integrity. Additionally, some railway tracks are designed with gaps to allow for expansion, ensuring safety and functionality during temperature fluctuations.


Why are there gaps in railway lines?

because of expansion and contraction.