In building construction, a beam is a horizontal structural member that carries vertical loads, such as the weight of the floors or the roof above it. When several beams are connected together, they create a frame or a structural system that supports the entire building.
A column, on the other hand, is a vertical structural member that supports the weight of the beams above it and transmits the loads to the foundation below. It usually consists of a long, slender, and cylindrical shape, and is designed to resist compressive forces.
In summary, a beam carries horizontal loads, while a column supports vertical loads. Both beams and columns are essential structural elements in building construction and work together to form a stable and secure building.
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