Coastal and Floodplain Construction Inspector's Practice Exam

What should slender bracing be considered as?

1. Compression only

2. Tension only

3. Both tension and compression

4. Unsupported

The correct answer is: Tension only

Slender bracing systems are primarily designed to resist lateral forces and are typically considered as tension members when analyzing their behavior in structural applications. This is because slender braces are most effective in holding structural elements in place under loading conditions that induce tension. In many structural designs, slender braces provide stability to a framework by resisting deformation. When a lateral load is applied, these braces work to keep the frame from swaying or buckling, and they do this by engaging in tension. While in reality, some bracing elements may experience both tension and compression under different loading scenarios, the fundamental design and consideration during the analysis often treat them predominantly as tension members. Other options may suggest that slender bracing is used in compression or both, but the primary concept behind slender bracing design hinges on its ability to efficiently handle tension forces, especially since these members tend to buckle in compression under certain conditions. Thus, understanding their role primarily as tension members enhances clarity in the design and structural analysis of buildings.