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Which design modification compensated for increased wind loads during the construction of Gothic cathedrals?

A)Flying buttresses transferring lateral thrust
B)Thicker walls absorbing wind energy
C)Smaller windows minimizing surface area
D)Centralized layouts distributing force

💡 Explanation

When cathedrals increased in height, wind loads increased significantly; flying buttresses transferred the lateral thrust of the nave vault to external supports because arches redirect vertical forces. Therefore, lateral support with buttresses results, rather than thicker walls, smaller windows or layouts which mitigate concentrated weight instead of wind.

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