Define a load combination and explain its purpose in structural design.

Define a load combination and explain its purpose in structural design.

• A. A single load applied repeatedly to test durability.
• B. A theoretical ratio of loads used only in wind design.
• C. A specified group of loads applied together with factors to reflect extreme conditions; it ensures the structure remains safe under simultaneous loads (dead, live, snow, wind, seismic, etc.) without excessive overdesign.
• D. The sum of dead load and live load only.

Answer: (C)