Which configuration has chords that run in the same plane and are connected to form triangular units?

• A. Warren truss
• B. Pratt truss
• C. Parallel chord truss
• D. Howe truss

Answer: (C)

This is about a truss where the two main chords run in the same direction and lie in the same plane, with web members tying between them to create a repeating series of triangular panels. When the top and bottom chords are parallel, they act as the two flanges, and the web members form many stable triangles between them. Triangles are inherently rigid, so this arrangement efficiently distributes loads without deformation.

Other common truss types also use triangular members, but the defining feature described here is the parallel relationship of the two chords. In those other configurations, you’ll often see vertical members or diagonals oriented in particular directions (toward the center in Pratt, away from the center in Howe, or diagonals alternating directions with no verticals in Warren). The explicit parallelism of the chords and the resulting triangular panels point to the parallel chord truss.