What characterizes a cantilevered bridge?

A cantilevered bridge is characterized by its unique structural design, where one end of the bridge extends beyond its support while the other end is anchored or supported. This arrangement allows for significant overreach, with the free end of the bridge being able to span gaps without any intermediate supports. This design effectively distributes the loads and allows the structure to resist bending and shear forces.

In cantilevered bridges, the portion that extends beyond the support is balanced by the weight and the forces acting on the supported end, resulting in a stable configuration.

The other answer choices do not accurately describe cantilevered bridges. For instance, a bridge that has supports at both ends typically refers to a simply supported or continuous bridge, which does not exhibit the cantilever action. While many cantilevered bridges may utilize reinforced concrete, that material is not exclusive to this type of bridge, as various materials can be employed in bridge construction. Finally, the reference to suspension cables pertains to a different style of bridge construction, specifically suspension bridges, which rely on cables to support the main structure rather than cantilevering principles.