I thought maybe I should talk about the actual Arc de Triomphe. It's only fair. So I decided to use this opportunity to research the technical and mechanical fzx behind the construction and strength of an arch.

Apparently, a stone arch is thought to be quite simple in the world of architecture. But if built incorrectly, gravity certainly takes its toll and the whole thing can easily come crashing down...

Yet there are many tricks to a successful arch. These techniques include: buttresses, pointed arches and pinnacles.

Some definitions?

A buttress is a project support of stone or brick against a wall.

A pinnacle is a high pointed piece of rock. This works similarly to a pointed arch, in that the shape itself is less prone to caving in, except that these are individual pieces rather than the arch's shape as a whole.

A pointed arch, is simply when an arch points upon the top.

And with a pointed arch, arcitects may keep in mind that the destabilizing sideways force is always less than with a rounded arch. Alas, the Arc de Triomphe is rounded, which means that the sideways force is substantial, especially considering the size of this famous monument. The Neoclassical Arc de Triomphe is the tallest free-standing arch in the world! And to stablize an arch like this, downward force, or weight can help counteract sideways force! This is why stone may seem risky, but is actually the best option for material in building an arch! Additionally, height is achieved by stabilizing the columns.

The main thing to keep in mind is downward forve versus sideways force. The weight much be more significant than that of the sideways force so that the arch remains upright completely, rather than caving in. That would be a disaster.

Amazingly enough, construction of the Arc de Triomphe began on August 15 of 1806 and wasn't opened for thirty years. In 1836 when the monument was finished, it did not collapse. And why? Because fzx kept it upright and arcitects are smart.

Again, I can' wait to go to the Champs-Elysees and see such an arch and it's angles and beautiful, magical, wonderful fzx! Maybe I'm being a little sarcastic...but, I mean...this stuff really is cool...

I'll keep you updated.