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Past Questions — 2025
Pick up the item of work not included in the plinth area estimate from the following :
A)
Wall thickness
B)
Verandah area
C)
Room area
D)
Courtyard area
A Plinth Area Estimate is an approximate estimate used to find the cost of a building based on its plinth area. The plinth area is the built-up covered area measured at the floor level of the plinth.
1. **Included Items**: According to standard civil engineering estimation practices, the plinth area includes the area of walls (wall thickness), the area of rooms, and the area of covered verandahs, corridors, and porches.
2. **Excluded Items**: Open spaces such as internal courtyards, open balconies, and external areas are specifically excluded from the plinth area calculation because they are not 'covered' built-up areas.
Therefore:
- Option (a) Wall thickness is included (it is part of the built-up area).
- Option (b) Verandah area is included (provided it is covered).
- Option (c) Room area is included (primary part of the built-up area).
- Option (d) Courtyard area is NOT included as it is an open space.
When the weight of the weir balances the uplift pressure caused by the head of water seeping below the weir, it is called as ____________
A)
gravity weir
B)
non-gravity weir
C)
vertical drop masonry weir
D)
concrete glacis weir
A gravity weir is a hydraulic structure designed such that its own self-weight is sufficient to resist the external forces acting upon it, primarily the hydrostatic pressure of the water and the uplift pressure caused by seepage underneath the structure. In a gravity weir, the stability against overturning and sliding is achieved by the weight of the masonry or concrete.
- Option (a) is correct because the definition of a 'gravity' structure in irrigation engineering is one where the weight balances the destabilizing forces (like uplift).
- Option (b) 'non-gravity weir' refers to structures that rely on external supports (like piles or anchors) rather than their own weight to maintain stability.
- Option (c) 'vertical drop masonry weir' describes a specific geometry of the weir but does not define the stability mechanism.
- Option (d) 'concrete glacis weir' refers to a weir with a sloping downstream face (glacis) to prevent scouring, which may or may not be a gravity structure, but the term 'glacis' refers to the shape, not the stability principle.
When an irrigation canal is taken over a drainage channel, the crossing is called:
A)
An aqueduct
B)
Super passage
C)
Level crossing
D)
Canal Siphon
In irrigation engineering, the crossing of a canal and a drainage channel is classified based on which structure is carried over the other and the relative levels of their beds.
1. **Aqueduct**: This is a structure where the canal is carried over the drainage channel. The canal bed is higher than the high flood level (HFL) of the drainage channel.
2. **Super Passage**: This is the opposite of an aqueduct; here, the drainage channel is carried over the canal. The drainage bed is higher than the full supply level (FSL) of the canal.
3. **Canal Siphon**: This occurs when the canal is carried under the drainage channel, and the canal water is forced to flow under pressure (siphoned) because the drainage bed is lower than the canal bed.
4. **Level Crossing**: This is a structure where both the canal and the drainage channel are mixed in the same level, and the water from both flows through the same crossing structure.
Since the question specifies that the 'irrigation canal is taken over a drainage channel', the correct term is an Aqueduct.
Seasoning of timber is done to
A)
Make it waterproof
B)
Expel moisture from timber
C)
Increase its strength
D)
Heat the timber
Seasoning is the process of reducing the moisture content (sap) of timber under controlled conditions. Freshly felled timber contains a large amount of water in its cell walls and cavities. If used in this state, the timber will shrink, warp, crack, or decay as it dries naturally over time. By seasoning (either through natural air drying or artificial kiln drying), the moisture is expelled, which stabilizes the timber, reduces its weight, increases its durability, and prevents fungal attacks.
Why other options are incorrect:
- Option (a): Seasoning does not make timber waterproof; waterproofing is achieved through chemical treatments or coatings (like paints or varnishes).
- Option (c): While seasoning improves the stability and durability of timber, its primary purpose is moisture removal. Strength may be marginally affected, but 'increasing strength' is not the definition or primary goal of seasoning.
- Option (d): Heating is a method used in artificial seasoning (kiln drying), but it is the means to an end, not the purpose of the process itself.
Manning’s formula is used for:
A)
Head loss due to friction in pipes
B)
Head loss due to friction in open channel
C)
Flow in open channel
D)
Flow in pipes
Manning's formula is an empirical equation used to calculate the velocity of water flowing in an open channel. The formula is expressed as V = (1/n) * R^(2/3) * S^(1/2), where V is the average velocity, n is the Manning's roughness coefficient, R is the hydraulic radius, and S is the slope of the energy grade line.
Analysis of options:
- Option (a) and (d): Head loss in pipes and flow in pipes are typically calculated using the Darcy-Weisbach equation or the Hazen-Williams equation. While Manning's can be adapted for partially full pipes, its primary and standard application is for open channels.
- Option (b): While Manning's formula can be used to derive the energy slope (which relates to head loss), the formula itself is fundamentally used to determine the 'Flow' (velocity and discharge) characteristics of the channel.
- Option (c): This is the most accurate description, as Manning's formula is the industry standard for designing and analyzing open channel flow (such as canals, rivers, and sewers flowing partially full).
How does the strength of concrete differ with the age of concrete?
A)
Increases
B)
Decreases
C)
No effect
D)
Increases, then decreases
The strength of concrete is primarily derived from the chemical reaction between cement and water, known as hydration. This process is time-dependent. As hydration progresses, calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) gel forms, which binds the aggregates together and fills the pores, thereby increasing the compressive strength of the concrete over time. While the most rapid gain in strength occurs during the first 28 days (the standard curing period), concrete continues to gain strength slowly for months or even years, provided moisture is available for hydration. Therefore, as the age of the concrete increases, its strength also increases. Option b is incorrect because concrete does not lose strength as it ages (unless subjected to chemical attack or degradation). Option c is incorrect because strength is highly dependent on age. Option d is incorrect because there is no inherent peak followed by a decrease in strength during the normal curing process.
Gravity dam is most suitable when the foundation is _______________
A)
weak
B)
strong
C)
with heavy burden
D)
rocky but cracked
A gravity dam is a massive structure designed to resist the external forces (primarily the hydrostatic pressure of the stored water) by its own self-weight. Because these dams are constructed using massive amounts of concrete or masonry, they exert an enormous vertical pressure (stress) on the underlying foundation.
1. Why 'strong' is correct: To prevent the dam from sinking (settlement) or failing due to shear failure of the soil, the foundation must have a high bearing capacity. Therefore, a strong rock foundation is essential to support the immense weight of the structure.
2. Why 'weak' is incorrect: A weak foundation (like soft clay or loose sand) cannot support the heavy load of a gravity dam and would lead to catastrophic settlement or failure. For weak foundations, arch dams or earth-fill dams are preferred.
3. Why 'with heavy burden' is incorrect: This is not a technical term used to describe foundation characteristics in geotechnical or irrigation engineering.
4. Why 'rocky but cracked' is incorrect: While gravity dams are built on rock, 'cracked' rock increases the risk of seepage (piping) and reduces the overall stability and bearing capacity, making it less suitable than a solid, strong foundation.
The growing of two or more crops on the same piece of land within one calendar year is known as:
A)
Multiple cropping
B)
Inter-cropping
C)
Mono-cropping
D)
Sequential
Step-by-step reasoning:
1. **Definition of Multiple Cropping**: Multiple cropping is the agricultural practice of growing two or more crops on the same piece of land during a single growing season or within one calendar year. This is done to maximize the utilization of land and water resources.
2. **Analysis of Option (b) Inter-cropping**: Inter-cropping involves growing two or more crops simultaneously on the same field (usually in specific row patterns). While it involves multiple crops, the defining characteristic is the simultaneous growth, not necessarily the span of a calendar year.
3. **Analysis of Option (c) Mono-cropping**: Mono-cropping is the practice of growing only one type of crop on the same land year after year. This is the opposite of the requirement in the question.
4. **Analysis of Option (d) Sequential**: Sequential cropping is a subset of multiple cropping where crops are grown in a sequence (one after another). While it fits the description, 'Multiple cropping' is the broader, standard technical term used in Irrigation and Agricultural Engineering to describe the general practice of growing more than one crop per year.
Therefore, the most comprehensive and correct term for growing two or more crops on the same land within one calendar year is Multiple Cropping.
What is the primary function of a head regulator in an irrigation canal system?
A)
To control the flow of water into the canal.
B)
To measure the velocity of water flow.
C)
To prevent sediment deposition in the canal.
D)
To increase the water level in the canal.
A head regulator is a hydraulic structure constructed at the head (start) of an irrigation canal, typically where the canal takes off from a main river or a larger reservoir/main canal. Its primary function is to regulate and control the quantity of water entering the canal system to ensure that the required discharge is maintained regardless of the water level in the source.
Analysis of other options:
- Option (b) is incorrect because measuring velocity is the function of flow meters or current meters, not a regulator.
- Option (c) is incorrect because preventing sediment deposition is primarily the function of a 'silt excluder' or 'silt ejector'. While head regulators can help in some sediment management, it is not their primary function.
- Option (d) is incorrect because increasing the water level is typically the function of a weir, barrage, or dam; the regulator manages the flow rate into the canal rather than raising the source water level.
What is the permissible velocity of water in cement concrete line canal as per IS10430-2000?
A)
2.7 m/s
B)
1.6 m/s
C)
2.6 m/s
D)
1.8 m/s
In irrigation engineering, the permissible velocity of water in a canal is the maximum velocity at which water can flow without causing erosion or scouring of the lining material. For cement concrete lined canals, the lining provides a smooth and hard surface that can withstand significantly higher velocities compared to unlined earthen canals. According to standard engineering practices and specifications often cited in Indian Standards (such as those related to concrete lining for canals), the maximum permissible velocity for a standard cement concrete lining to prevent abrasion and ensure long-term durability is generally taken as 1.8 m/s. Velocities exceeding this limit may lead to the gradual wearing away of the concrete surface, especially if the water carries suspended silt or debris. Therefore, option (d) is the correct technical specification.
What is the main advantage of drip irrigation?
A)
Low initial cost
B)
Suitable for all soil type
C)
Easy to install and maintain
D)
High water application efficiency
Drip irrigation, also known as trickle irrigation, is designed to deliver water slowly and precisely to the root zone of plants through a network of valves, pipes, tubing, and emitters.
1. Why Option (d) is correct: The primary advantage of drip irrigation is its exceptionally high water application efficiency (often exceeding 90%). It minimizes water loss due to evaporation, surface runoff, and deep percolation, making it the most efficient method for water conservation.
2. Why Option (a) is incorrect: Drip irrigation typically has a high initial cost due to the requirement for pumps, filtration systems, and extensive piping networks compared to surface irrigation.
3. Why Option (b) is incorrect: While it can be used in many soils, it is not 'universally' suitable without modification. For example, in very heavy clay soils, the wetting pattern may be too narrow, and in very sandy soils, water may move vertically too quickly, requiring specific emitter spacing.
4. Why Option (c) is incorrect: Drip systems are complex to install and require rigorous maintenance, particularly regarding the cleaning of filters and preventing emitter clogging caused by mineral deposits or algae.
Which zone is the most important from an irrigation point of view?
A)
Soil Zone
B)
Intermediate Zone
C)
Capillary Zone
D)
Saturation Zone
In irrigation engineering, the soil profile is divided into different zones based on water content and movement. The Capillary Zone (also known as the capillary fringe) is the region located just above the water table where water rises from the saturation zone into the unsaturated zone due to surface tension and capillary action. This zone is the most critical from an irrigation point of view because it provides a continuous supply of moisture to the plant root zone from the groundwater table, reducing the frequency of artificial irrigation required.
- Soil Zone (a) is a general term and not a specific hydraulic zone.
- Intermediate Zone (b) is not a standard technical term for a specific irrigation layer.
- Saturation Zone (d) is the area where all pores are filled with water (below the water table); while it holds the water, the plant roots cannot typically survive in a fully saturated zone due to lack of aeration (anaerobic conditions). Therefore, the capillary zone is the functional bridge that makes water available to the plant.
Irrigation canals are generally aligned along :
A)
Ridgeline
B)
Contour line
C)
Valley line
D)
Straight line
In irrigation engineering, the alignment of a canal is critical for efficient water distribution.
1. **Ridgeline Alignment (Watershed Alignment):** A canal aligned along the ridgeline (the highest point of the land dividing two drainage basins) is preferred because it allows the canal to irrigate land on both sides using gravity. This maximizes the 'command area' and minimizes the need for expensive pumping or artificial lifts.
2. **Why other options are incorrect:**
- **Contour line:** While contour canals follow a constant elevation, aligning a canal strictly along a contour line would mean it has no slope, and water would not flow by gravity. Contour canals are used for specific purposes, but the general ideal alignment for maximum command is the ridgeline.
- **Valley line:** Aligning a canal along a valley line (the lowest point) is impractical because water would naturally flow toward the canal from both sides, leading to drainage problems, seepage issues, and the inability to distribute water to higher lands via gravity.
- **Straight line:** A straight line ignores the topography of the land. Following a straight line would require excessive cutting (excavation) and filling (embankments) to maintain the required bed slope, making it economically unviable.
The total area that can be irrigated from a project on its full utilization in a design agricultural area is:
A)
Ultimate Irrigation Potential
B)
Gross Irrigated Area
C)
Irrigation Potential Utilized
D)
Irrigation Potential Created
In irrigation engineering and project planning, the following terms are used to define the capacity and utilization of a project:
1. **Ultimate Irrigation Potential (UIP):** This is the total area that can be irrigated when the project is fully developed and utilized according to its design capacity. It represents the maximum theoretical limit of the project's agricultural reach.
2. **Irrigation Potential Created (IPC):** This refers to the area for which the irrigation infrastructure (canals, distributaries, etc.) has been physically constructed and is ready to provide water.
3. **Irrigation Potential Utilized (IPU):** This is the actual area that is currently being irrigated with water delivered through the created infrastructure. Often, IPU is less than IPC because of delays in field-level development or water availability.
4. **Gross Irrigated Area (GIA):** This is the total area irrigated, including the area occupied by field channels, bunds, and other non-cropped land within the irrigated command area.
Since the question asks for the total area that can be irrigated upon 'full utilization' in a 'design agricultural area', it refers to the maximum capacity of the project, which is the Ultimate Irrigation Potential.
The approximate cost of a building of cubic content of 400 cu m@ Rs.180/- per cu m is __________
A)
Rs. 92000/-
B)
Rs. 12000/-
C)
Rs. 72000/-
D)
Rs. 42000/-
To find the approximate cost of the building using the cubic content method, we use the following formula:
Approximate Cost = (Total Cubic Content of the building) × (Rate per cubic meter)
Given data:
1. Total Cubic Content = 400 cu m
2. Rate = Rs. 180/- per cu m
Calculation:
Approximate Cost = 400 cu m × 180 Rs/cu m
Approximate Cost = 72,000 Rs.
Comparing this result with the given options:
- Option (a) Rs. 92000/- is incorrect.
- Option (b) Rs. 12000/- is incorrect.
- Option (c) Rs. 72000/- matches our calculation.
- Option (d) Rs. 42000/- is incorrect.
Which of the following is a Rabi crop?
A)
Rice
B)
Wheat
C)
Jowar
D)
Maize
In Indian agriculture, crops are primarily categorized based on the sowing season into Kharif and Rabi crops.
1. **Rabi Crops**: These are winter crops. They are typically sown in October-November (winter season) and harvested in March-April (spring). They require a cool climate during growth and a warm climate during ripening. Wheat is the primary example of a Rabi crop.
2. **Kharif Crops**: These are monsoon crops. They are sown at the beginning of the rainy season (June-July) and harvested in September-October. They require high temperatures and significant rainfall.
Evaluating the options:
- **Rice (a)**: A Kharif crop; it requires heavy rainfall and high humidity.
- **Wheat (b)**: A Rabi crop; it is sown in winter and requires cooler temperatures.
- **Jowar (c)**: Primarily a Kharif crop (though some varieties can be grown in Rabi, it is classically categorized as Kharif).
- **Maize (d)**: Primarily a Kharif crop, as it is typically sown during the monsoon season.
Which method is widely used in India for the computation of consumptive use?
A)
Penman’s equation
B)
Hargreaves – Christiansen equation
C)
Blaney-Criddle equation
D)
Tanks and lysimeter
Consumptive use (CU) or Evapotranspiration (ET) is the total amount of water used by plants for transpiration and evaporation from the soil. Several methods exist to estimate this:
1. Blaney-Criddle Equation: This method is widely used in India and other regions because it requires only basic meteorological data (mean monthly temperature and day length), making it practical for areas where comprehensive weather station data (like wind speed or humidity) is unavailable.
2. Penman's Equation: This is considered the most scientifically accurate 'combination' method as it accounts for both energy balance and aerodynamic factors. However, it requires extensive data (humidity, wind speed, sunshine hours), making it less 'widely used' for routine field computations in many Indian irrigation projects compared to simpler empirical formulas.
3. Hargreaves-Christiansen: This is a temperature-based method similar to Blaney-Criddle but is more common in specific international contexts rather than being the standard 'widely used' method in Indian irrigation textbooks.
4. Tanks and Lysimeters: These are direct measurement methods. While highly accurate for specific sites, they are expensive, time-consuming, and cannot be used for wide-scale computation across different climatic zones.
Therefore, due to its simplicity and the availability of required data, the Blaney-Criddle equation is the preferred choice for general computation of consumptive use in India.
If the slump value of the concrete mix is 60mm, what is the workability level?
A)
Low
B)
Medium
C)
High
D)
Very High
The slump test is a standard method used to measure the consistency and workability of fresh concrete. Workability is generally categorized based on the slump value as follows:
1. Low Workability (Dry/Stiff mix): Slump value typically ranges from 25mm to 50mm. This is used for mass concrete, road pavements, and foundations.
2. Medium Workability (Plastic mix): Slump value typically ranges from 50mm to 100mm. This is the most common range used for reinforced concrete beams, columns, and slabs.
3. High Workability (Flowing mix): Slump value typically ranges from 100mm to 175mm. This is used for heavily reinforced sections or where congestion is high.
4. Very High Workability: Slump values exceeding 175mm (often involving superplasticizers or self-compacting concrete).
Since the given slump value is 60mm, it falls squarely within the 50mm to 100mm range, which corresponds to 'Medium' workability.
The hydrological cycle
A)
has a beginning but does not end
B)
has both beginning and end
C)
occurs continuously in nature
D)
has three phases- precipitation, evaporation and runoff
The hydrological cycle (water cycle) is the continuous movement of water on, above, and below the surface of the Earth.
1. Why option (c) is correct: The cycle is a closed system driven by solar energy and gravity. Water constantly moves between the oceans, atmosphere, and land through processes like evaporation, transpiration, condensation, precipitation, infiltration, and runoff. Because it is a cycle, it has no specific starting or ending point; it is a perpetual process.
2. Why option (a) and (b) are incorrect: A 'cycle' by definition is a repeating sequence. Therefore, it cannot have a beginning or an end.
3. Why option (d) is incorrect: While precipitation, evaporation, and runoff are key components, the cycle consists of many more phases, including condensation, transpiration, infiltration, and groundwater flow. Limiting it to only three phases is scientifically incomplete.
How can we improve the duty of water?
A)
Construction of Weir
B)
Construction of Dam
C)
Check Dams
D)
Lining of Canals
Step-by-step reasoning: 1. Definition of Duty: In irrigation engineering, 'Duty' refers to the area of land that can be irrigated with a unit volume of water flowing at a constant rate throughout the base period. Mathematically, Duty (D) is inversely proportional to Delta (Δ), the total depth of water required by the crop. 2. Improving Duty: To 'improve' or increase the duty means to irrigate a larger area of land using the same amount of water. This is achieved by reducing water losses during conveyance and application. 3. Analysis of Options: (a) Weirs, (b) Dams, and (c) Check Dams are structures used for water storage, diversion, or controlling the water table; they do not inherently reduce the losses of water as it travels from the source to the field. (d) Lining of Canals involves providing an impervious layer (like concrete or plastic) on the bed and sides of the canal. This significantly reduces seepage losses and evaporation, ensuring that more water reaches the crop. 4. Conclusion: By reducing conveyance losses through lining, the efficiency of water use increases, thereby increasing the 'Duty' of the water.
What is the recommended size of a brick?
A)
20×10×10cm
B)
20×9×9cm
C)
19×9×9cm
D)
19×8×8cm
In Civil Engineering, it is crucial to distinguish between the 'Nominal Size' and the 'Standard Size' of a brick.
1. **Standard Size (Actual Size):** This is the size of the brick before mortar is added. According to Indian Standards (IS), the standard size of a modular brick is 19 cm × 9 cm × 9 cm.
2. **Nominal Size:** This is the size of the brick including the mortar joint (usually 10mm). The nominal size is 20 cm × 10 cm × 10 cm.
Since the question asks for the 'recommended size' (which typically refers to the standard modular size of the unit itself), the correct answer is 19×9×9cm.
- Option (a) 20×10×10cm is the Nominal size.
- Option (b) 20×9×9cm is incorrect.
- Option (d) 19×8×8cm is incorrect.
In an analysis of rates, contractors’ profit is calculated at
A)
20%
B)
15%
C)
5%
D)
10%
In the process of 'Analysis of Rates' for civil engineering works, the total cost of an item is calculated by summing the costs of materials, labor, and plant/machinery. To this prime cost, two additional percentages are typically added to arrive at the final rate: 1) Water charges (usually 1% to 1.5%) and 2) Contractor's Profit. According to standard practice in Public Works Department (PWD) specifications and general estimation guidelines used in competitive exams for Junior Engineers, the contractor's profit is conventionally taken as 10% of the total cost of materials and labor. Options a (20%), b (15%), and c (5%) are either too high or too low compared to the standard industry and governmental norms used for rate analysis.
Calculate the hydraulic radius for a channel having a cross-sectional area of 20 m2 and a wetted perimeter of 50 m.
A)
0.4 m
B)
0.8 m
C)
2.5 m
D)
0.6 m
The hydraulic radius (R) of a channel is defined as the ratio of the cross-sectional area of the flow (A) to the wetted perimeter (P).
Given data:
- Cross-sectional area (A) = 20 m²
- Wetted perimeter (P) = 50 m
Formula:
Hydraulic Radius (R) = Area (A) / Wetted Perimeter (P)
Calculation:
R = 20 m² / 50 m
R = 2 / 5 m
R = 0.4 m
Therefore, the hydraulic radius is 0.4 m.
- Option b (0.8 m) is incorrect as it would require a perimeter of 25 m.
- Option c (2.5 m) is incorrect as it is the result of P/A instead of A/P.
- Option d (0.6 m) is mathematically incorrect based on the given values.
In which type of irrigation method, the entire land is not wetted?
A)
Contour Farming
B)
Free Flooding
C)
Furrow Method
D)
Basin Flooding
In the Furrow Method of irrigation, water is applied in small, parallel channels (furrows) that run across the field. The water flows down these furrows, and the moisture reaches the crop roots through lateral seepage into the ridges. Consequently, only the soil in and immediately adjacent to the furrows is wetted, while the tops of the ridges remain dry. This makes it an ideal method for row crops (like maize or potatoes) that are sensitive to waterlogging around the stem.
Comparing other options:
- Contour Farming (a) is a soil conservation practice, not primarily an irrigation method.
- Free Flooding (b) involves letting water flow over the entire surface of the land without any control, wetting the entire area.
- Basin Flooding (d) involves surrounding a plot of land with a dike and filling the entire basin with water, wetting the entire surface area.
What is the main difference between a dam and weir?
A)
Material used for Construction
B)
Height and Duration of Storage
C)
Capacity of Water
D)
Location of the Structure
In irrigation engineering, the primary distinction between a dam and a weir lies in their purpose and design regarding water storage.
1. **Dam**: A dam is a large barrier constructed across a river or stream to create a reservoir. Its primary purpose is to store water for long durations (seasonal or perennial) to be used for irrigation, power generation, or flood control. Because of the need for significant storage, dams are generally much higher structures.
2. **Weir**: A weir is a smaller, low-head overflow structure. Its primary purpose is not long-term storage, but rather to raise the water level (ponding) upstream to divert water into a canal or to measure the flow rate of the river. Water flows over the crest of a weir continuously.
Comparing the options:
- (a) Material: Both can be made of concrete, masonry, or earth; this is not the defining difference.
- (c) Capacity: While related to storage, 'Capacity' is a result of the height and duration of storage, making (b) the more comprehensive technical definition.
- (d) Location: Both are constructed across water bodies; location is not the distinguishing factor.