What construction technique is important in managing differential movements in building structures?

The correct choice is focused on the use of expansion or control joints, which play a crucial role in managing differential movements in building structures. These joints are designed to absorb temperature-induced expansions and contractions, as well as other movements caused by settling or environmental conditions. By incorporating these joints into a structure, engineers allow for the necessary flexibility, thereby preventing stress and potential damage to the integrity of walls, floors, and roof systems.

When materials expand and contract, particularly in response to temperature changes, the structural components can shift relative to one another. Expansion or control joints create a controlled space where this movement can occur without inducing stress on the adjacent elements of the building. This is particularly critical in larger structures or those built with materials that have different thermal properties.

Other options may address different aspects of structural integrity or stability, but they do not specifically target the management of differential movements in the same comprehensive way that expansion or control joints do. For instance, shear transfer is important in maintaining the overall stability and load distribution within a structure, while wall anchors and stabilizing braces primarily focus on providing support against lateral forces or enhancing connection strength. However, these methods do not specifically accommodate the movements that occur due to thermal effects or settling that the expansion or control joints are designed