Which statement best describes gravity loads in relation to other loads?

• A. They are gravitational downward forces acting on the structure.
• B. They are always lateral.
• C. They only include live loads.
• D. They only occur during earthquakes.

Answer: (A)

Gravity loads are the vertical forces produced by the weight of the structure and everything it carries. They act downward because of gravity, creating the downward pressure that all structural members must resist. These loads include dead loads (permanent, like the self-weight of the structure, fixed elements, and finishes) and live loads (occupants, furniture, movable items, snow, etc.). They stay present at all times, unlike lateral loads from wind or earthquakes, which act horizontally or dynamically. So the statement that gravity loads are downward, gravitational forces acting on the structure, captures the essential idea: they are vertical forces caused by weight, always present and separate from lateral or dynamic loads.