Which component rests directly on footings in a bridge?

The correct answer is that columns rest directly on footings in a bridge. Columns serve as vertical structural elements that transfer loads from the superstructure of the bridge, such as the deck and other components, down to the footings, which are the foundation elements providing support.

In bridge construction, footings are crucial because they help distribute the weight of the bridge's structure evenly onto the soil. The columns are positioned atop the footings and carry significant loads, which is why their design and placement are critical for the bridge's stability and integrity.

While piles, caps, and decks are also important components of a bridge, they serve different roles. Piles are used in deep foundation systems and are driven into the ground to reach stable soil or rock, typically not resting directly on footings. Caps are structural components that connect the tops of piles, distributing loads to the piles beneath. The deck is the surface of the bridge that vehicles and pedestrians travel on. It is supported by the columns and does not rest directly on the footings. Understanding these roles helps clarify how each component contributes to the overall structural system of a bridge.