Arches

Arches, in structural engineering and architecture, form a structural system and have been used in construction for thousands of years. Their ability to span large distances without the need for vertical supports in the middle makes them a versatile and aesthetically pleasing choice in structural design. Arches work on the principle of transferring the load or weight placed on them to their supports or foundations through compression forces. Arches are inherently stable due to their shape and the nature of forces. Some common types include the semicircular arch, pointed arch, segmental arch, and horseshoe arch, which are constructed from various materials, including stone, brick, concrete, wood, and steel.