Define the term 'load-bearing structure.'

The term 'load-bearing structure' refers to a construction that is designed to support loads, which includes its own weight as well as additional loads imposed by other objects, people, or environmental forces. This type of structure is essential for maintaining stability and safety in construction and engineering.

Load-bearing structures are crucial in various applications where the ability to carry weight is fundamental. For example, the walls of a building may serve as load-bearing elements that not only uphold the structure's roof but also endure the weight of components like furniture and equipment inside the building.

The other choices do not accurately capture this definition. While an aesthetically pleasing structure may have visual appeal, it does not inherently imply an ability to bear loads. A structure that can be moved easily would not typically be described as load-bearing, as portability usually means it lacks the robustness required for load support. Lastly, a structure that requires less material does not inherently relate to its load-bearing capabilities; it's possible for a load-bearing structure to be designed efficiently with the minimum amount of material, but that is not a defining characteristic of the term 'load-bearing structure' itself.