Which term describes a load that varies in intensity?

The term that describes a load varying in intensity is dynamic load. Dynamic loads are associated with forces that change over time, such as those from moving vehicles, wind, or seismic activity. These loads can fluctuate based on various factors like speed or environmental conditions, which is what distinguishes them from other types of loads.

Static loads, on the other hand, are constant or unchanging forces acting on a structure, such as the weight of the building materials themselves. Live loads refer to transient forces that can vary in magnitude and location, typically from occupancy and usage of the space, but they do not necessarily change in intensity as dramatically as dynamic loads. Impact loads are a specific type of dynamic load created by sudden, high-intensity forces, like a falling object. While impact loads are dynamic, they do not represent the broader concept of varying intensity beyond that sudden action.