What type of beam is supported at three or more points?

A beam that is supported at three or more points is known as a continuous beam. This type of beam spans over multiple supports and experiences bending moments due to applied loads. The continuous support provides greater stability and allows the beam to distribute loads more evenly across its length, reducing the risk of excessive deflection compared to simpler beam configurations.

Continuous beams are commonly used in construction because they enhance the structural performance of a building or framework, allowing for longer spans and minimizing the amount of material needed while maintaining strength. This makes them particularly advantageous for larger structures or when space constraints are present.

In contrast, a simple beam is supported only at two points, and a cantilever beam is fixed at one end and free at the other, which leads to different behavior when loads are applied. Reinforced beams refer to beams that contain additional materials to increase strength but do not specifically indicate the number of supports. Hence, continuous beams are the correct choice when identifying a beam supported at three or more points.