Discovering Different Types of Arches in Architecture

What type of arch is characterized by having two centers and radii equal to the span?

A. Equilateral arch

B. Gothic arch

C. Segmental arch

D. Horseshoe arch

Final answer:

The type of arch described is the Horseshoe arch.

The type of arch described is the Horseshoe arch, which is characterized by having two centers and radii equal to the span. This type of arch was common in the architecture of the Visigoths and eventually spread across North Africa as a characteristic feature of Western Islamic architecture. Examples of horseshoe arches can be found in the Great Mosque at Cordoba, Spain, and the Tower (Giralda) at Seville Cathedral, Spain.

The type of arch characterized by having two centers and radii equal to the span is an Equilateral arch. These are not to be confused with Gothic arches, which are pointed arches and a key element in Gothic architecture. The pointed arch is said to have relieved some of the thrust and stress on other architectural elements, allowing for slimmer columns and lighter structures, which became a fundamental element of the Gothic style.

Meanwhile, the horseshoe arch, prevalent in Western Islamic architecture, was originally developed by the Visigoths and is noted for its striking visual appearance often found in structures such as the Great Mosque at Cordoba, Spain. Horseshoe arches have a more pronounced curve than an Equilateral arch, which is symmetrical and has a curved apex equal to the width of the span.