Final answer:
Beams used to support floors, ceilings, or roofs are critical structural components with variations that have evolved over time. From the cylindrical and compound piers of Romanesque architecture to the wood, steel, and concrete beams of modern buildings, these structures are essential for bearing loads and achieving desired architectural forms.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of beam used to support a floor, ceiling, or roof can vary depending on the architectural style, materials, and the structural requirements of a building. In historic architecture, such as that of the Romanesque period, both pier and column structures were commonly used. Piers, which are heavier and often cylindrical or of a compound form, could support the tremendous weight of the stone vaulting above them, while the more slender columns were typically found in between the piers. The beams used in roofs can take numerous forms, such as simple truss, tie beam, or king post designs, and might be used in conjunction with vaults, particularly in places like Italy. Often, such wooden beams were left exposed and decorated, adding an aesthetic element to their functionality.
In modern construction, there is a range of materials that can be used for beams, including but not limited to wood, steel, and reinforced concrete. The choice depends on the architectural design, the load they need to support, and the desired span they need to cover. When designing the structural support for buildings, engineers take into account factors such as the weights they need to support and the value of the gravitational acceleration (g), which can slightly change at different heights above the Earth's surface.