In a spherical dome subjected to concentrated load at crown or uniformly distributed load, the meridional force is always A. Zero B. Tensile C. Compressive D. Tensile or compressive

The correct answer is: C. Compressive

A spherical dome is a structure that is in compression. This means that the forces acting on the dome are pushing inward, towards the center of the dome. The meridional force is a force that acts along the meridians of the dome, which are the lines that run from the top of the dome to the bottom. The meridional force is always compressive in a spherical dome, because the forces acting on the dome are always pushing inward.

Option A is incorrect because the meridional force is never zero in a spherical dome. Option B is incorrect because the meridional force is always compressive, not tensile. Option D is incorrect because the meridional force is always compressive, not tensile or compressive.