What is the difference between "load-bearing" and "non-load-bearing" walls?

Load-bearing walls are essential structural components of a building as they are designed to support and carry weight from the floors, roof, and other structural elements above them. This means that they play a critical role in maintaining the integrity and stability of the entire structure. In contrast, non-load-bearing walls do not carry any significant weight; their primary function is to divide space within a building rather than support it. These walls can often be removed or altered without compromising the building's structural integrity.

Understanding this distinction is vital for architectural design, construction, and any renovations, as removing a load-bearing wall without proper reinforcement can lead to structural failure. The clear difference in functionality between these types of walls reiterates why the correct answer identifies load-bearing walls as those that support structural loads, while non-load-bearing walls do not fulfill this role.