What happens when a load pushes down on a beam bridge?

When a load pushes down on a beam bridge, it creates vertical forces that cause the beam to bend or deflect. The weight generates stress within the material, primarily resulting in tension on the bottom side and compression on the top side of the beam. This bending moment must be countered by the bridge's support structure to maintain stability and prevent failure. Additionally, the distribution of the load influences how forces are transmitted through the bridge to its supports.