Final answer:
Option (b) The claim that the Brooklyn Bridge was the first suspension bridge made of steel wire is false; it was one of the early bridges that used steel wire but not the first.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that the Brooklyn Bridge was the first suspension bridge in the world to be made of steel wire is false. While the Brooklyn Bridge was one of the earliest suspension bridges to use steel wire for its cables, it was not the first. The bridge, completed in 1883, was a technological marvel of its time and significantly contributed to American infrastructure and connectivity between Brooklyn and Manhattan. In the context of engineering and bridge design, the Brooklyn Bridge is often studied for its innovation and the use of steel which heralded a new era in bridge construction.
The Brooklyn Bridge, an iconic symbol of New York City, was completed in 1883. Designed by John A. Roebling, who passed during construction, his son Washington Roebling oversaw the project. This hybrid cable-stayed and suspension bridge spans the East River, connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn. The construction employed innovative techniques, including the use of caissons for deep foundation work. This led to health risks, with workers facing "caisson disease," now known as decompression sickness. Despite challenges, the bridge opened on May 24, 1883. The Brooklyn Bridge played a crucial role in facilitating transportation and trade between Manhattan and Brooklyn. It accommodates pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles, fostering connectivity between the boroughs. The bridge's elevated walkway offers breathtaking views of the skyline and has become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.