What does a gravity connection rely on to hold the load in place?

A gravity connection fundamentally relies on gravity to maintain the stability and position of a structural element. In this type of connection, the components are designed such that the weight of the elements themselves creates a downward force, which is effectively transferred through the structure without the need for additional support systems.

This method is effective in construction because it ensures that as long as the forces of gravity are acting on the load, the connection remains secure. The weight of the components keeps them in place, relying on the vertical pull of gravity to hold everything together. Other forces, such as wind or seismic activity, might introduce stresses, but the primary mechanism at play in a gravity connection is gravity itself.

The other choices do not accurately capture the principle behind a gravity connection; for example, external support would suggest an additional means of stability that is not inherent to the gravity connection design. Flexibility pertains more to the ability of a material to deform under stress rather than the straightforward application of gravitational force, and friction, while it might play a role in some connections, does not define the core function of a gravity connection as it would be in situations involving tension or shear forces.