Which of the following is a common characteristic of elevators?

Elevators are designed primarily for the vertical transportation of people and goods. This functionality is essential in a variety of settings, such as residential buildings, office complexes, and industrial environments. The vertical movement provided by elevators allows for convenient access to multiple floors, enhancing mobility and efficiency within structures.

The other options highlight misunderstandings about elevator characteristics. Elevators are not powered by steam in modern applications; they typically use electric motors or hydraulic systems instead. Furthermore, elevators are equipped with extensive safety features to ensure the safe transport of passengers and cargo, adhering to strict regulations. Lastly, there is no universal limit on the number of passengers an elevator can carry; it varies based on the design and capacity of the elevator itself. Thus, the correct response focuses on the primary function of elevators as vertical transport systems.