load combinations for RCC structures

[NAL@#]

In load combinations for RCC structure design, why do we add vertical dead load to horizontal wind load/Earthquake load (1.5DL + 1.5WL/EL, for example)? That looks to me like a scalar addition of the loads. Isn't load a vector quantity? If so, how can we add two perpendicular vectors using scalar addition? Or, am I missing something?

 

[HTURKAK]

Or, am I missing something?

Yes ... you are missing something.
Load combination does not mean the linear addition of the effects but for the effect of load combined using the factors to find the total effect at the point of discussion.

 

[NAL@#]

Yes ... you are missing something.
Load combination does not mean the linear addition of the effects but for the effect of load combined using the factors to find the total effect at the point of discussion.

Can you please elaborate on what you mean by the effect of load combined using the factors to find the total effect at the point of discussion? I'm just a student trying to learn the fundamentals of structural engineering.