How many inches must beams and girders bear on a masonry column?

Beams and girders must bear a minimum of 3 inches on a masonry column to ensure structural stability and proper load distribution. This requirement is part of building codes and standards that aim to prevent possible failures due to inadequate support. The specified 3 inches allows for enough surface area for the load to transfer effectively from the beam or girder to the column, thus enhancing the overall integrity of the structure. This standard also accounts for potential variations in the materials and construction practices, ensuring that there is ample bearing area to handle the stresses involved. The other options do not meet this minimum standard and would not provide adequate support for the structural elements involved.