BC Ch. 2 Terms

Questions and Answers

What role do arches play in structural engineering?

They allow for increased airflow within buildings.

They function solely to support roofs.

They combine the structural functions of beams and columns. (correct)

They are simply ornamental features.

What is the main purpose of arches in construction?

To serve as the primary load-bearing element without any decorative value

To enhance the aesthetic appeal of the structure

To support only lightweight structures

To combine the functions of a beam and a column (correct)

In construction terminology, what does 'attitude' denote?

The vertical or horizontal orientation of a structure (correct)

The amount of weight a foundation can carry

The overall aesthetic of a building's facade

A style or theme in architectural design

Which best defines an axial load?

A load that passes through the centroid of a section and is perpendicular to the plane of the section Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes a bar joist?

A lightweight steel truss joist Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a beam within a structural framework?

To transmit forces perpendicular to such forces to the reaction points Signup and view all the answers

In construction, what does the term 'bent' refer to?

A line of columns in any direction Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the function of a braced frame in a structural system?

To enhance lateral stability and load resistance Signup and view all the answers

What defines the function of beams in terms of load transfer?

To transmit forces perpendicular to the applied loads to the reaction points Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of hurricane bracing in a structure?

To prevent uplift of the components of a structure during a hurricane Signup and view all the answers

What best describes the function of a joist in construction?

A beam used to support floors or roofs Signup and view all the answers

What does K-bracing refer to in structural engineering?

An arrangement of braces between columns that resembles the letter 'K' Signup and view all the answers

What is a kilojoule (kJ) in measurement terms?

A metric unit approximately equivalent to one Btu Signup and view all the answers

In masonry construction, what are headers used for?

Masonry units that tie together adjoining wythes of masonry Signup and view all the answers

What defines an inverted king post truss?

A truss incorporating a single compression member extending downward Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of a lintel in a building?

To support structures above openings for doors and windows Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a gusset plate?

A thin sheet of steel used to connect truss components Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of a load-bearing wall?

A wall that supports the structure above it Signup and view all the answers

What role does a ledger board serve in construction?

To support wood joists attached to wall studs Signup and view all the answers

What type of load does 'live load' refer to in construction?

The weight of dynamic elements like occupants and furniture Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a lightweight truss?

To create a triangular unit for roof or floor support Signup and view all the answers

What does 'dead load' encompass in construction?

All materials permanently incorporated into a building Signup and view all the answers

What does 'heat release rate' (HRR) measure?

The rate at which the potential heat in fuel is released Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes a homogeneous wall in construction?

A wall that functions as a unit with strong bonding of materials Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes a demising wall?

It separates tenant spaces within a building. Signup and view all the answers

What role does a diaphragm floor serve in construction?

To enhance structural stability against lateral loads. Signup and view all the answers

How is an eccentric load defined in structural terms?

A force applied perpendicularly but not through the center. Signup and view all the answers

What defines a fire wall in building construction?

To separate buildings and prevent fire spread. Signup and view all the answers

What is a flitch plate girder primarily composed of?

A piece of steel between two wooden beams. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a foundation in a building?

To transmit and anchor loads to the ground. Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes a fixed beam in construction?

Rigidly held at two ends without movement. Signup and view all the answers

What does fire resistance imply for construction materials?

The capacity to resist ignition and thermal effects of fire. Signup and view all the answers

What purpose does a gravity connection serve in building construction?

To hold structural elements in place using building weight. Signup and view all the answers

How are girders utilized within a structure?

To support other primary beams. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term fire load evaluate?

The potential fuel a fire may consume in a building. Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by deflection in structural engineering?

The deformation of a structural member due to loads. Signup and view all the answers

What does a grillage system provide in construction?

A method for distributing loads through multiple beams. Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes a built-up girder in construction?

It consists of steel plates and angles riveted together. Signup and view all the answers

What does a buttress primarily do in construction?

Strengthens a wall against heavy load or thrust. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'camber' refer to in structural engineering?

An upward rise to counter deflection. Signup and view all the answers

What best describes a cavity or hollow wall in construction?

A wall built from two wythes separated by a cavity for insulation. Signup and view all the answers

How is caloric value measured?

In British Thermal Units (Btu). Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of bracing in structural systems?

To resist lateral forces such as wind and earthquakes. Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of a composite wall?

Composed of two or more masonry materials that work under load. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a column in structural design?

To transmit a compressive force along a straight path. Signup and view all the answers

What defines a continuous beam in structural layout?

Supported at three or more points for improved load handling. Signup and view all the answers

How is compression defined in structural mechanics?

A direct pushing force acting along the axis. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes a cantilever beam from a standard beam?

Supported only at one end. Signup and view all the answers

What is the definition of a concentrated load in structural terms?

A load that acts on a very small area of the structure. Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'centroid' signify in engineering design?

The center point where a body is stable under gravity. Signup and view all the answers

What is bracing primarily used for in structural construction?

To resist lateral loads caused by wind or earthquakes. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a support member in a block wall?

To distribute concentrated loads Signup and view all the answers

What do watts (W) specifically measure in relation to fire safety?

The energy release rate of a fire Signup and view all the answers

In a truss, what does the term 'web' refer to?

The group of struts, ties, and panel points Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of weep holes in masonry walls?

To permit water to escape trapped inside the wall Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes a wet joint in concrete construction?

A connection for uniting precast rods with cast-in-place concrete Signup and view all the answers

In structural engineering, what does 'wind load' reflect?

The force of wind acting on a structure during storms Signup and view all the answers

In masonry construction, what defines 'wythes'?

Vertical walls made of masonry units one unit thick Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a function of a temporary support during construction?

To bear the weight of permanent structures until completion Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of a self-releasing floor in heavy-timber construction?

It allows for quick removal during renovations. Signup and view all the answers

What accurately describes 'self-weight' in the context of construction?

The weight of the structure itself. Signup and view all the answers

Which definition best describes a shear wall?

A wall that provides resistance against lateral loads. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a spandrel girder in construction?

To provide structural support between columns. Signup and view all the answers

What defines a simple beam in construction terminology?

A beam supported at two ends carrying loads to reaction points. Signup and view all the answers

Which best describes the role of steel joists in construction?

They provide a web design for floor and roof support. Signup and view all the answers

In structural engineering, what does stiffness refer to?

The ability to resist excessive deflection under loads. Signup and view all the answers

What specifically does strain measure in a material?

The deformation when stress is applied. Signup and view all the answers

What does stress represent in materials science?

The force applied per unit area causing deformation. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes stretchers in masonry construction?

Masonry units laid horizontally to create wall face. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes structural elements in building construction?

They encompass components like beams, columns, and walls. Signup and view all the answers

What roles do struts play in a structured building?

They provide bracing and stability throughout. Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes the structural frame of a building?

It includes all members that support the building. Signup and view all the answers

What type of wall is specifically designed to support additional loads besides its own weight?

A load-bearing wall Signup and view all the answers

In construction, what do loads refer to?

Forces or actions from the weight of materials and environmental effects Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes a megastructure from other types of structures?

It is a very large structure Signup and view all the answers

What are rakers in construction?

Diagonal bracing columns Signup and view all the answers

What does 'pinned' refer to in structural engineering?

Structural elements connected by simple connectors such as bolts, rivets, or welded joints Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes the energy release rate of a fire in relation to megawatts?

Measurement of heat output in a fire Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes a queen post truss?

A truss with two compression members Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'moment' represent in structural engineering?

The tendency of a force to twist or rotate a member Signup and view all the answers

What is a pilaster in construction?

A masonry column projecting from one or both faces of a wall Signup and view all the answers

What function does a moment connection serve in construction?

It prevents beam and column displacement Signup and view all the answers

What does 'plastic design' refer to in construction?

A design based on connections that redirect overloads to other sections of the building Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes a moment frame?

A structural system that resists lateral loads Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of monolithic concrete in construction?

To appear as a single cohesive structure Signup and view all the answers

What is a rubble masonry wall?

A wall composed of inner and outer wythes of coursed masonry filled with random masonry and mortar Signup and view all the answers

What role does a needle beam play in construction?

To provide foundation support for existing walls Signup and view all the answers

What does 'precast' mean in construction?

A concrete member that is cast and cured in a place other than its final position in the structure Signup and view all the answers

What does HRR stand for in fire dynamics?

Heat Release Rate, referring to the rate at which a fuel will burn Signup and view all the answers

In structural engineering, what does the neutral axis indicate?

The point where deformation does not occur Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best defines a non-load-bearing wall?

A wall that supports only its own weight Signup and view all the answers

What does the safety factor in construction refer to?

The ratio of the strength of a material just before failure to the safe working stress Signup and view all the answers

What is reinforced concrete?

Concrete that contains embedded steel reinforcement to act together in resisting forces Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes an overhanging beam in construction?

Projects beyond its support without being a cantilever Signup and view all the answers

What do panel points refer to in a truss system?

Connection points for ties and chords Signup and view all the answers

What does 'reaction' refer to in structural engineering?

The response in structures to the imposed loads, generally developed at the supports Signup and view all the answers

What causes a rising roof in wood trusses?

Differences in moisture levels between the upper and lower wood truss chords, causing the truss to bend Signup and view all the answers

What is true about a partition wall within a building?

It helps to divide internal spaces Signup and view all the answers

What does a rigid frame consist of?

All columns and beams are rigidly connected with no hinged joints Signup and view all the answers

What is portal bracing?

Heavy riveting of girders to columns from the top to the bottom of the frame Signup and view all the answers

What type of beam is suspended by a tension member such as a chain, cable, or rod?

A simple beam with one or both ends suspended on a tension member Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes a suspended load in construction?

A hanging load supported from above Signup and view all the answers

In structural engineering, what does tension refer to?

A pulling or stretching force in line with the axis of the body Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of a tie-rod in construction?

To hold structural parts together in tension Signup and view all the answers

In a truss system, what do the ties represent?

The tension members holding the truss together Signup and view all the answers

What does torque measure within a structural context?

The turning force applied to a structural element Signup and view all the answers

What is defined by the term torsion in structural engineering?

A force that twists a structural member Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of a transfer beam in construction?

To carry loads around large openings Signup and view all the answers

What does transmission refer to in construction?

The way loads spread from application points to the ground Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes a triangular truss?

A roof truss designed in triangular shape for peak support Signup and view all the answers

In construction terminology, what defines a truss?

A structure composed of triangles to support loads Signup and view all the answers

What does tube construction involve?

An externally braced structure for stability Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by ultimate strength in construction?

The maximum load a structure withstands prior to failure Signup and view all the answers

How is a uniformly distributed load defined?

A load spread evenly across an area Signup and view all the answers

What is the defining feature of a veneer wall?

A masonry wall improving exterior appearance Signup and view all the answers

Which description accurately defines the term 'truss' in structural engineering?

The group of struts, ties, and panel points in a truss Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of weep holes in masonry walls?

To allow water trapped inside the wall to escape Signup and view all the answers

In concrete construction, what is meant by the term 'wet joint'?

Cast-in-place concrete that unites the rods projecting from precast sections Signup and view all the answers

What does 'wind load' refer to in structural engineering?

The positive or negative force of the wind acting on a structure Signup and view all the answers

What are 'wythes' in the context of masonry construction?

Single continuous vertical walls of masonry units, one masonry unit in thickness Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes a Vierendeel truss?

A rectangular truss with very rigid corner bracing Signup and view all the answers

What are voussoirs in construction?

The wedge-shaped blocks whose converging sides radiate from a center, forming the elements of an arch or vaulted ceiling Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a wall in a structure?

To transmit compressive forces to the ground Signup and view all the answers

What is a wall column?

A supporting member of steel, reinforced concrete, or solid masonry in a block wall, where concentrated loads are applied directly above Signup and view all the answers

What do watts (W) measure in the context of fire safety?

The units for measuring the energy release rate of a fire Signup and view all the answers

What does the web refer to in a truss?

The structural connections between the top and bottom chords Signup and view all the answers

What defines a voussoir's role in an arch?

They help in distributing the load along the arch's curve. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes a wall column from a standard column?

It supports concentrated loads directly above in a block wall. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of a truss in structural engineering?

To support heavy loads through a system of struts and ties Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of weep holes in masonry walls?

To allow trapped moisture to exit from the wall Signup and view all the answers

How should a wet joint in concrete construction be defined?

Concrete poured to connect precast elements together Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'wind load' indicate in structural engineering contexts?

The force produced by wind acting on a structure Signup and view all the answers

Which best describes the concept of wythes in masonry construction?

Single vertical walls of masonry one unit thick Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes a Vierendeel truss?

A rectangular truss with very rigid corner bracing Signup and view all the answers

What are voussoirs in construction?

The wedge-shaped blocks whose converging sides radiate from a center, forming the elements of an arch or vaulted ceiling Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a wall in a structure?

To transmit compressive forces to the ground Signup and view all the answers

What is a wall column?

A supporting member of steel, reinforced concrete, or solid masonry in a block wall, where concentrated loads are applied directly above Signup and view all the answers

What do watts (W) measure in the context of fire safety?

The units for measuring the energy release rate of a fire Signup and view all the answers

What does the web refer to in a truss?

The vertical members that connect the top and bottom chords Signup and view all the answers

What defines the function of voussoirs in arch construction?

They form the key element of the curvature of the arch Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes the primary function of a wall in structural integrity?

Walls distribute lateral loads to the foundation Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Arches

Arches combine the structural roles of both beams and columns, providing support for various loads.
They help evenly distribute weight and enhance the stability of the structure.

Attitude

In construction, "attitude" refers to the orientation of a structure, either vertical or horizontal.
Understanding the attitude is crucial for ensuring the correct alignment and stability of a building.

Axial Load

An axial load is defined as a load that passes through the centroid of a section, acting perpendicular to the plane of the section.
This type of load is essential for determining how structures will behave under different force applications.

Bar Joist

A bar joist is a lightweight steel truss joist used for spanning distances in various structures.
They are designed to support floors and roofs, providing strength without excessive weight.

Beam

The primary function of a beam is to transmit forces perpendicular to the applied loads to the reaction points.
Beams are fundamental components in construction, allowing for the safe transfer of loads and enhancing structural integrity.

Key Construction Terms and Concepts

Arches: Function to combine the structural roles of a beam and a column, supporting both vertical and horizontal loads.
Attitude: Refers to the vertical or horizontal orientation of a structure, essential in determining structural stability.
Axial Load: A load that passes through the centroid of a section and is perpendicular to the plane, critical in structural analysis.
Bar Joist: A lightweight steel truss joist used in construction for providing support and spanning distances with minimal weight.
Beam: Transmits forces perpendicular to its length to reaction points, forming an essential part of structural frameworks.
Bent: Represents a line of columns arranged in any direction, important for organizing structural support.
Braced Frame: Incorporates diagonal members to provide bracing against lateral loads such as wind and earthquakes.
Bracket: Supports structures that cantilever, preventing potential failure due to unbalanced forces.
Brick and Block Composite Wall: Composed of an exterior wythe of brick and an inner concrete masonry unit (CMU), enhances structural integrity and thermal performance.
Btu (British Thermal Unit): Measures the heat needed to raise the temperature of 1 pound of water by 1°F, critical for energy calculations.
Built-up Girder: Made from steel plates and angles riveted together, typically used in large span applications to support loads effectively.
Buttress: Strengthens walls against heavy loads or lateral thrust, commonly found in masonry structures.
Caloric Value: Measured in British Thermal Units (Btu), indicates the energy content of fuels.
Camber: An upward rise designed into beams to counteract deflection under loads, aiding in structural performance.
Cantilever Beam: Supported on one end only, providing unique architectural and structural challenges.
Cavity or Hollow Wall: Built of two wythes separated by a space, allowing for drainage or insulation benefits.
Centroid: The balance point of a structure, fundamental in load calculations and stability assessments.
Chord: Refers to the top and bottom outside members of a truss, crucial for its load distribution.
Column: Transmits compressive forces vertically, integral for building stability and load transfer.
Composite: A term for structures made up of different materials, enhancing performance and utility.
Composite Wall: Consists of two or more masonry materials interacting under load, providing structural integrity.
Compression: A direct pushing force acting along the axis of a member, fundamental in structural engineering principles.
Concentrated Load: A load applied over a very small area, often leading to significant localized stress.
Continuous Beam: Supported at multiple points to distribute loads more efficiently across its span.
Core Construction: Involves bracing elements located within the central area of the structure for enhanced stability.
Cross Wall: Positioned at right angles to another wall, providing additional bracing and stability.
Dead Load: Represents the weight of all permanently incorporated materials in a structure, essential for load calculations.
Deflection: Indicates the deformation or displacement of structural elements due to applied loads, critical in design considerations.
Demising Wall: Separates spaces within buildings, vital for zoning and tenant privacy.
Diaphragm Floor: Serves to stiffen buildings against lateral forces such as wind and seismic activity.
Eccentric Load: A load that is applied perpendicularly but does not pass through the center, creating bending moments.
Fire Cut: An angled cut at the end of a joist that allows it to fall safely during a fire situation, protecting load-bearing walls.
Fire Load: Measures the potential fuel available for a fire in a building, critical in fire safety assessments.
Fire Resistance: The ability of a material to avoid combustion and withstand thermal effects of fire, critical for safety ratings.
Fire Wall: Separates buildings or parts of buildings to limit the spread of fire, essential for safety regulations.
Fixed Beam: Rigidly held at both ends, offering stability and resistance to bending under loads.
Flitch Plate Girder: Comprises a steel plate sandwiched between wooden beams, combining the benefits of both materials.
Foundation: Transfers loads from the building to the ground, anchoring the structure against settlement and structural failure.
Gang Nail: Another term for a gusset plate used in lightweight wood trusses, providing connections for structural integrity.
Girders: Serve to support other beams, playing a crucial role in load distribution.
Gravity Connection: Relies on the weight of the structure for stability, minimizing the need for additional mechanical fasteners.
Gravity Resistance System: Comprises all structural components that support and transfer loads, fundamental to a building's integrity.
Grillage: Comprises closely spaced beams designed to distribute heavy loads across a surface effectively.
Gusset Plate: A thin steel plate that connects truss components, providing stability and support.
Headers: Masonry units that tie together multiple wythes, essential for structural cohesion.
Heat Release Rate (HRR): Measures how fast fuel releases heat energy, crucial in fire dynamics analysis.
Homogeneous Wall Construction: Acts as one cohesive unit, enhancing strength and integrity through good bonding.
Hurricane Bracing: Prevents uplift forces during severe weather, enhancing a structure's resilience.
Impact Load: Represents the dynamic effect of moving loads acting on a stationary structure, critical in design considerations.
Inverted King Post Truss: Features a single compression member extending downward, unique in truss design.
Joist: A beam that supports floors or ceilings, integral to structural frameworks.
K-bracing: Arranged braces forming the letter “K” between columns, enhancing lateral stability.
Kilojoule (kJ): Metric unit of energy approximately equivalent to one Btu, used in energy calculations.
Kilowatts (KW): Measures the energy release rate of a fire, important for assessing fire dynamics.
KIP: A unit of force equating to 1000 pounds, used in structural engineering for load calculations.
Knee Wall: A short wall in attic spaces, providing structural support and often used to add usable floor space.
Lateral Impact Load: A force applied horizontally, such as by wind or seismic activity, necessitating design considerations for stability.
Ledger Board: Supports joists by anchoring to wall studs, crucial for framing in construction.
Lightweight Truss: Composed of light materials arranged in triangular units to support roofs or floors efficiently.
Lintel: Horizontal beam supporting structures above openings in walls, important in door and window installations.
Live Load: Represents variable weights, including occupants and furniture, impacting structural design.
Load-Bearing Wall: Carries loads beyond its own weight, critical for structural integrity in multi-story buildings.### Construction Terminology
Loads: Refer to forces or actions arising from the weight of materials, occupants, environmental factors, and restrained dimensional changes.
Megastructure: A term used for very large structures.
Megawatts (MW): Measures the energy release rate of a fire.
Moment: Describes the tendency of a force to rotate or twist a structural member.
Moment Connection: A connection preventing the sliding and rotation of beams and columns.
Moment Frame: A structural system with specialized connections to resist lateral loads like those from earthquakes or wind.
Monolithic Concrete: A construction technique in which all concrete castings are joined to appear as a single unit.
Needle Beam: Used to support existing walls when foundation changes are made.
Neutral Axis: The line along which a beam's length does not change under load.
Non-Load-Bearing Wall: A wall that carries no structural load beyond its own weight.
Overhanging Beam: Projects beyond its support but isn't far enough to be a cantilever.
Panel Points: Connection points in a truss that join ties, struts, and chords.
Panel Wall (Curtain Wall): A non-load-bearing wall used to enclose framed buildings.
Parallel-Chord Truss: A truss with upper and lower chords aligned.
Partition Wall: Used to subdivide spaces within a building or room.
Party Wall: A common load-bearing wall shared by two structures.
Piers: Short masonry columns supporting structural members.
Pilaster: A column-like structure projecting from a wall.
Pinned: Refers to structural elements connected with simple connectors such as bolts or rivets.
Plastic Design: A design approach that directs overloads to other sections of a structure.
Portal Bracing: Heavy riveting of girders to columns from top to bottom for stability.
Precast: Concrete elements cast and cured outside their final position, ready for installation.
Precast Concrete Tilt-Slab Wall: Acts as a vertical cantilever during erection, braced temporarily.
HRR (Heat Release Rate): Indicates the rate at which fuel burns, critical in fire dynamics.
Queen Post Truss: Characterized by two compression members.
Rakers: Diagonal columns providing bracing support.
Reaction: Refers to the structural response to imposed loads, typically at supports.
Reinforced Concrete: Concrete containing steel reinforcement for enhanced strength against forces.
Repeated Load: Applied intermittently to a structural member over time.
Rigid Frame: Features no hinged joints; all components are rigidly connected.
Rising Roof: Caused by moisture differences in wood trusses, leading to bending.
Rubble Masonry Wall: Comprised of wythes of coursed masonry filled with random material.
Safety Factor: The strength ratio of a material just before failure compared to safe working stress.
Sand-Lime Mortar: An older water-soluble mortar mix that could wash away over time.
Self-Releasing Floor: Girders with minimal stability allowing for easy removal.
Self-Weight: Another term for the dead load of a structure.
Serpentine Wall: A wall shaped in a curve, not straight.
Shear Forces: Pull structural members in opposite directions.
Shear Connection: Prevents sliding between columns and beams.
Shear Wall: Resists lateral loads, enhancing building stability against wind and earthquakes.
Simple Beam: Supported at two points near its ends, effectively delivering loads.
Spaceframe: A three-dimensional truss-like structure with a pyramid shape for stability.
Spandrel Girder: A girder tying wall columns in framed buildings together.
Steel Joist: Open web design supports floors and roofs, lightweight but strong.
Stiffness: Refers to a member's ability to withstand loads without excessive deflection.
Strain: Measures the percentage of deformation in a material when stressed.
Stress: Force per unit area that induces deformation in materials.
Stretchers: Masonry units laid horizontally in wall construction.
Structural Elements: Include beams, trusses, columns, arches, and walls essential for supporting a building.
Structural Frame: Combines all structural members to distribute loads to the foundation.
Struts: Bracing columns that provide support and stability.
Suspended Beam: A beam with one or both ends suspended by tension elements.
Suspended Load: A load that hangs and is supported from above.
Tension: A pulling force along the body, in contrast to compression.
Tie-Rod: A tension rod used to hold structural parts together.
Ties: Tensile connections in a truss.
Torque: Measures the turning force applied to a structural member.
Torsion: Refers to the twisting force applied to a structural member.
Transfer Beam: Carries loads around openings to avoid columns.
Transmission: Describes how loads are spread from the application point to the ground.
Triangular Truss: A structural element commonly used in spanning large spaces.### Truss
A triangular roof truss creates a peaked roof, providing structural support.
Trusses consist of a framed structure formed by triangles to efficiently bear loads.

Tube Construction

Tube construction involves an externally braced structure that enhances stability and strength.

Ultimate Strength

Ultimate strength measures the maximum load that a structure can handle before failing.

Uniformly Distributed Load

Uniformly distributed load refers to a load that is evenly distributed over a surface area, creating balanced pressure.

Veneer Wall

A veneer wall consists of a single layer of masonry, primarily for aesthetic improvements on a building's exterior.

Vierendeel Truss

A Vierendeel truss is a rectangular truss with rigid corner bracing, distinct from triangular trusses.

Voussoirs

Voussoirs are wedge-shaped blocks used in arches or vaulted ceilings, converging at a center point to form structural elements.

Wall

The primary role of a wall is to transmit compressive forces down to the ground, providing structural integrity.

Wall Column

A wall column supports concentrated loads above it, made from materials like steel, reinforced concrete, or solid masonry.

Watts (W)

Watts measure the energy release rate of a fire, crucial for fire safety assessments.

Web

The web of a truss includes the struts, ties, and panel points, contributing to the overall structural system.

Weep Holes

Weep holes in masonry walls allow trapped moisture to escape, preventing water damage.

Wet Joint

A wet joint involves cast-in-place concrete that connects rods from precast sections, enhancing structural cohesion.

Wind Load

Wind load is defined as the forces (positive or negative) of wind acting upon a building, influencing its design and stability.

Wythes

Wythes are vertical walls made of masonry units, with a single unit thickness providing strength to the structure.

Vierendeel Truss

Characterized as a rectangular truss featuring very rigid corner bracing.
Differentiates from triangular trusses and lightweight steel trusses.

Voussoirs

Wedge-shaped blocks in construction, forming the elements of an arch or vaulted ceiling.
Converging sides radiate from a center, providing structural integrity in arches.

Wall

Primary function is to transmit compressive forces to the ground, supporting the overall structure.
Plays a role beyond decoration, vital for stability.

Wall Column

A supporting member made of steel, reinforced concrete, or solid masonry.
Specifically designed to carry concentrated loads applied directly above it in a block wall.

Watts (W)

Measures energy release rate in fire safety, indicating the intensity of a fire.
Distinct from measuring temperature or weight of firefighting equipment.

Web

Refers to the group of struts, ties, and panel points within a truss.
Essential for maintaining structural integrity and load distribution.

Weep Holes

Designed to allow trapped water within masonry walls to escape, preventing structural damage.
Important for wall maintenance and longevity.

Wet Joint

Involves cast-in-place concrete that joins rods from precast sections, providing strength and stability.
Not merely a decorative feature, but a structural necessity in concrete construction.

Wind Load

Describes the positive or negative forces exerted by wind on a structure.
Consideration of wind load is critical in structural engineering to ensure stability.

Wythes

Single continuous vertical walls of masonry units, typically one unit in thickness.
Integral to the structural composition of walls in masonry construction.

Vierendeel Truss

Characterized as a rectangular truss featuring very rigid corner bracing.
Differentiates from triangular trusses and lightweight steel trusses.

Voussoirs

Wedge-shaped blocks in construction, forming the elements of an arch or vaulted ceiling.
Converging sides radiate from a center, providing structural integrity in arches.

Wall

Primary function is to transmit compressive forces to the ground, supporting the overall structure.
Plays a role beyond decoration, vital for stability.

Wall Column

A supporting member made of steel, reinforced concrete, or solid masonry.
Specifically designed to carry concentrated loads applied directly above it in a block wall.

Watts (W)

Measures energy release rate in fire safety, indicating the intensity of a fire.
Distinct from measuring temperature or weight of firefighting equipment.

Web

Refers to the group of struts, ties, and panel points within a truss.
Essential for maintaining structural integrity and load distribution.

Weep Holes

Designed to allow trapped water within masonry walls to escape, preventing structural damage.
Important for wall maintenance and longevity.

Wet Joint

Involves cast-in-place concrete that joins rods from precast sections, providing strength and stability.
Not merely a decorative feature, but a structural necessity in concrete construction.

Wind Load

Describes the positive or negative forces exerted by wind on a structure.
Consideration of wind load is critical in structural engineering to ensure stability.

Wythes

Single continuous vertical walls of masonry units, typically one unit in thickness.
Integral to the structural composition of walls in masonry construction.

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Test your understanding of key terms in construction with this quiz. Covering concepts such as arches and attitudes, you'll be challenged to select the correct definitions and functions. Perfect for students and professionals to reinforce their knowledge.