North Carolina Building Contractor License Practice Exam

What is a shear wall designed to resist?

1. Lateral forces perpendicular to the wall

2. Lateral forces parallel to the plane of a wall

3. Vertical loads only

4. Wind pressure only

The correct answer is: Lateral forces parallel to the plane of a wall

A shear wall is specifically designed to resist lateral forces acting parallel to the plane of the wall. These forces typically arise from wind loads and seismic activity, which can create horizontal stresses on a building. The design of shear walls incorporates materials and structural methods that provide stiffness and strength, allowing them to effectively transfer these lateral forces to the foundation. While lateral forces perpendicular to the wall, vertical loads, and wind pressure might also be considered during the overall design of a structure, the primary function of a shear wall is to counteract the lateral forces generated by environmental factors like wind and earthquakes. Understanding the role of shear walls in structural engineering is crucial, as they play a vital role in maintaining the integrity and stability of buildings during adverse conditions.