NICET - Highway Construction Inspection Practice Exam

Which term describes an abutment that minimizes the required span length of a bridge?

1. Open abutment

2. Closed abutment

3. Stub abutment

4. Pedestal abutment

The correct answer is: Closed abutment

The term that describes an abutment minimizing the required span length of a bridge is a closed abutment. Closed abutments are designed to support the ends of a bridge and are typically solid structures, as opposed to open structures that allow for more water flow and lighter loads. By effectively providing a strong and continuous support, closed abutments help to reduce the span length between the bridge's supports, which can lead to a more efficient and stable bridge design. This means that they can accommodate different load requirements while ensuring that the structure remains safe and functional. The other types of abutments serve different purposes. Open abutments provide openings for water flow, which can be crucial in flood-prone areas but may not optimize span length. Stub abutments are shorter and facilitate construction, but they do not reduce span length as effectively as closed abutments. Pedestal abutments are designed primarily for specific load distributions and do not necessarily minimize the overall span. Thus, closed abutments are particularly advantageous in achieving shorter spans and contributing to the overall integrity of bridge structures.