Which term describes a vertical member in a roofing structure?

A vertical member in a roofing structure is best described by the term "column." Columns are structural elements that support loads from above, such as roof trusses, and transfer those loads down to the foundation. They are crucial for maintaining the stability and integrity of a building.

While other options have their specific roles in structural design, they do not primarily refer to vertical members. For instance, beams typically run horizontally and can support loads between vertical columns. Chords refer to the members of trusses that run along the top and bottom, while webs are the diagonal members that connect the chords in a truss system. Thus, in the context of roofing structures, the term "column" accurately captures the nature and purpose of a vertical member.