Arches are often seen as stronger than beams in many building designs. This is because they handle weight in a smart way. Here are some important reasons why:

1. How Arches Handle Weight

• How Arches Work: Arches change vertical weight into pushing forces that follow their curved shape. This means that the weight from above pushes down through the arch and into the ground along its sides.
• How Beams Compare: Beams tend to bend when they carry weight. This can create pulling (tension) on the bottom and pushing (compression) on the top. Arch strength is different because it distributes the pressure more evenly.

2. Using Materials Wisely

• Strength with Compression: Some materials, like stone and concrete, are really strong when they are pushed together (compressed) but not as strong when they are pulled apart (tension). Arches take advantage of this by allowing builders to use lighter materials while still keeping everything safe and stable.

3. Stability of the Structure

• Shape Equals Strength: The curved form of an arch gives it extra support against forces from the side, like wind or earthquakes. On the other hand, beams can twist or bend when faced with these challenges.

4. Proven Success Over Time

• Strong History: Old buildings, like Roman aqueducts or Gothic cathedrals, show how well arches work. For instance, the Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct, stretches 275 meters and is mostly made of stone arches, showing how strong and lasting they can be.

In short, arches are not only lighter but also stronger and more stable than beams. This makes them a key part of good building design.