Final answer:
The top chord is the component of a roof that resists compression, as it operates under the downward force exerted by the weight of the roof and transfers the load at the peak of the roof truss.
Therefore, top chord is the correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The component of a roof that resists compression is the top chord. Roof trusses are typically triangular structures designed to distribute the weight of the roof, and the top chord, or upper member, operates under compression as it pushes down towards the peak of the truss where the load is transferred. In contrast to the top chord, the bottom chord is generally in tension, reacting to the spreading force that it receives where it meets the lower ends of the web members. The vertical web primarily resists shear forces, and the king post is used to prevent the truss from spreading apart, mainly resisting tension.