Which statement about truss design best describes its purpose?

• A. They resist bending by shaping a solid beam
• B. They evenly distribute loads between members through tension and compression
• C. They are lighter than all other structures
• D. They require only two joints

Answer: (B)

Truss design works by carrying loads mainly through members in tension or compression, using a network of straight elements connected at joints to form stable triangles. This arrangement creates efficient load paths so forces travel from the point of load to the supports without relying on bending of a single large member. The main idea is that loads are distributed across many members as axial forces, rather than being resisted by bending a solid beam.

That’s why this statement best describes the purpose: loads are distributed between members through tension and compression. The other ideas miss the core approach: trusses don’t resist bending by shaping a solid beam, they use numerous members in axial load; they aren’t guaranteed to be lighter than all other structures; and they involve many joints, not just two.