The value 220,000 N likely represents the axial load that the timber column is subjected to, but it's converted to Newtons. In the problem, it's mentioned that the column carries an axial load of 240 kN.

Since 1 kN (kilonewton) equals 1,000 Newtons, converting 240 kN to Newtons gives:

$240 \, \text{kN} = 240 \times 1,000 = 240,000 \, \text{N}$

However, the figure 220,000 N could be a slight adjustment used in the design for safety considerations, or due to the initial assumptions or simplifications in the calculation. It's common in engineering to use a slightly reduced value for safety factors or practical limits in design.

If you want to dig deeper, this could be the effective or safe load that the column is designed to support, not the exact maximum load.

Would you like more details or have any specific questions?

Here are 5 follow-up questions that might help extend your understanding:

1. Why is the column considered a long column based on the slenderness ratio $L/d$?
2. How do you calculate the critical load for buckling using Euler’s formula?
3. What role does the modulus of elasticity ($E_w$) play in the column design?
4. How do the lateral supports at different positions (3 m from the base) affect the column's behavior?
5. What safety factors are typically considered when designing a timber column under an axial load?

Tip: Always check if the material strength values and loads are within safe limits when designing structures to avoid buckling or failure.