Which component is directly responsible for receiving water in a bridge drainage system?

Answer: B — Inlets

The component that is directly responsible for receiving water in a bridge drainage system is the inlets. Inlets are designed to capture precipitation that falls onto the bridge deck and channel it into the drainage system. Their positioning typically at strategic locations on the bridge allows for effective collection of water, thus preventing water accumulation and potential damage to the bridge structure. On the other hand, outlet pipes serve to direct water away from the bridge but do not actively collect it. Downspout pipes, while part of the drainage system, function to transport the water collected by the inlets down from the structure, and expansion joints are primarily used to accommodate the movement of the bridge rather than for drainage purposes. Thus, inlets are the critical component for the initial stage of water management on a bridge.