______ is a vertical member which is placed at the ends of flights to connect the ends of strings and hand rail.
🔬 Understanding Staircase Terminology
To answer this question correctly, one must be familiar with the various components that make up a staircase. The question describes a key structural and anchoring component.
⚖️ Detailed Analysis & Glossary
Let's define each term to identify the correct answer.
(d) Newel Post
Why it's correct: A newel post is a vertical member which is placed at the ends of a flight to connect the ends of strings and handrails. It acts as the main support post for the balustrade. This matches the question's description perfectly.
(a) Scotia
Why it's incorrect: This is a decorative moulding provided under the nosing (the projecting edge of a tread) to add strength and improve the appearance. It is a small detail, not a main vertical support.
(b) Baluster
Why it's incorrect: A baluster is a smaller vertical member, typically made of wood or metal, that fills the space between the handrail and the stringer or tread. While it is a vertical member, it supports the handrail along its length, not at the ends of the flight.
(c) Balustrade
Why it's incorrect: This term refers to the entire railing system as a whole, which includes the handrail, balusters, and newel posts. The question asks for a specific component, not the entire assembly.
📋 Comprehensive Glossary of Stair Parts
- Step: A portion of a stair that permits ascent or descent.
- Tread: The upper horizontal portion of a step upon which the foot is placed.
- Riser: The vertical portion of a step providing support to the tread.
- Landing: A level platform at the top, bottom, or middle of a flight.
- Flight: An unbroken series of steps between landings.
- Nosing: The projecting part of the tread beyond the face of the riser.
- Strings (or Stringers): The sloping members which support the steps in a stair.
- Soffit: The underside of a stair.
- Headroom: The clear vertical distance between the tread and the structure overhead.