The P-delta effect, or P-Δ effect, is a phenomenon in structural engineering that refers to the additional moments and forces in a structure caused by the lateral displacements that occur due to axial loads. The term "P" represents the axial load (typically due to gravity), and "Δ" represents the lateral displacement of the structure, such as from wind or seismic activity. When a vertical load is applied to a structure, it may cause the structure to sway or deform laterally.
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