Which primary mechanism allowed ancient suspension bridges, such as the Inca rope bridges, to span significant distances?

💡 Explanation

When load is applied to the bridge deck, the catenary shape of the cables distributes the weight through tension, resisting sag due to gravity because tension forces act along the cable's length. Therefore, catenary cable weight distribution results, rather than arch compression, cantilever bending, or torsion, which rely on different loading and structural properties.

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