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Past Questions
A beam is defined as a structural member subjected to
A)
axial loading
B)
transverse loading
C)
axial and transverse loading
D)
none of the above
In structural mechanics, a beam is specifically defined as a structural member designed to support loads applied perpendicular to its longitudinal axis. These loads are known as transverse loads. When a beam is subjected to transverse loading, it primarily undergoes bending (flexure) and shear stress.
Comparing the options:
- Option (a) 'axial loading' describes a member like a column or a tie/strut, where the force acts along the longitudinal axis, causing tension or compression.
- Option (b) 'transverse loading' is the defining characteristic of a beam, as it induces the bending moment that beams are designed to resist.
- Option (c) 'axial and transverse loading' describes a 'beam-column'. While a beam can technically experience both, the fundamental definition of a beam focuses on its capacity to carry transverse loads.
- Option (d) is incorrect because option (b) is the standard engineering definition.
A compression member consisting of angle sections may be
A)
continuous member
B)
discontinuous single angle strut
C)
discontinuous double angle strut
D)
all the above
In steel structure design, compression members (struts) can be configured in several ways depending on the structural requirements and the type of truss or frame being constructed.
1. **Continuous Members**: A compression member can be a single continuous piece of steel (such as a long angle or a built-up section) that spans across multiple nodes of a truss.
2. **Discontinuous Single Angle Struts**: In many truss designs, a single angle section is used as a strut. It is termed 'discontinuous' if it is spliced or connected at intervals rather than being one single piece from end to end, or if it is used as a short bracing member between main chords.
3. **Discontinuous Double Angle Struts**: For higher load capacities and to reduce eccentricity (which causes bending moments in compression members), two angle sections are often used back-to-back. These can also be discontinuous or spliced.
Since all three configurations (continuous, discontinuous single, and discontinuous double angles) are valid and commonly used engineering practices for compression members, the correct answer is 'all the above'.
According to Rankine’s formula of earth pressure on a retaining wall of h and with other usual notations, is
A)
wh2 / 2 * (1 - sin phi)
B)
wh2 / 2 * (1 + sin phi)
C)
wh2 / 4 * (1 + sin phi)
D)
wh2 / 2 * (1 - sin phi)
According to Rankine's theory of earth pressure, the active earth pressure coefficient (Ka) for a cohesionless soil with an angle of internal friction (phi) is given by: Ka = (1 - sin phi) / (1 + sin phi). The active earth pressure at a depth 'h' is p = Ka * w * h, where 'w' is the unit weight of the soil. The total active thrust (Pa) acting on the wall is the integral of the pressure over the height, which results in the area of the pressure triangle: Pa = 1/2 * Ka * w * h^2. Substituting Ka = (1 - sin phi) / (1 + sin phi), the formula becomes Pa = (w * h^2 / 2) * [(1 - sin phi) / (1 + sin phi)]. Looking at the provided options, option (a) represents the numerator part of the coefficient (1 - sin phi) multiplied by the pressure triangle area (wh^2/2). While the full Rankine formula typically includes the (1 + sin phi) in the denominator, in the context of these specific multiple-choice options, option (a) is the intended answer as it correctly identifies the 'active' pressure relationship (1 - sin phi). Option (b) would relate to passive pressure (1 + sin phi). Note: There is a typo in the options provided in the source exam where (a) and (d) are identical, but (a) is the standard selection for active pressure components.
The energy stored in beam of length L, subjected to a constant bending moment M is
A)
M2L / 2EI
B)
ML2 / 2EI
C)
M2L / EI
D)
ML2 / EI
The strain energy stored in a beam due to bending is given by the general formula: U = ∫ (M² / 2EI) dx, where M is the bending moment, E is the Young's modulus, I is the moment of inertia, and x is the length along the beam. In this specific problem, the bending moment M is constant over the entire length L of the beam. Therefore, the integration becomes: U = (M² / 2EI) ∫ dx from 0 to L. Evaluating the integral gives U = (M² / 2EI) * [x] from 0 to L = (M²L) / 2EI. Note: In the provided options, 'M2L' is a typographical representation of M²L. Option (a) matches this derived formula. Options (b), (c), and (d) are incorrect because they either miss the square on the moment M or omit the factor of 1/2 required by the strain energy formula.
The maximum bending moment due to moving load on a simply supported beam occurs
A)
at the mid span
B)
at supports
C)
anywhere in the beam
D)
under the load
For a simply supported beam of length L, the bending moment at any section x from the left support due to a single concentrated moving load P is given by the formula M = (P * a * b) / L, where 'a' is the distance of the load from the left support and 'b' is the distance from the right support. To find the absolute maximum bending moment as the load moves across the beam, we analyze the moment at the center (x = L/2). When the load P is positioned exactly at the mid-span (x = L/2), the bending moment is M_max = (P * (L/2) * (L/2)) / L = PL/4. This is the highest possible bending moment that can occur at any point in the beam for a single moving point load. While the maximum moment 'under the load' varies as the load moves, the absolute maximum value across the entire beam's length and the load's travel path occurs specifically when the load is at the mid-span.
M 20 grade concrete means its compressive strength of 15 cm cube is 30 N/mm2 after
A)
7 days
B)
14 days
C)
21 days
D)
28 days
1. Understanding Concrete Grade Notation: In the designation 'M 20', 'M' stands for the Mix and '20' represents the characteristic compressive strength of a 150 mm (15 cm) cube of concrete in N/mm² (MPa).
2. Standard Curing Period: According to IS 456:2000 (the Indian Standard code for Plain and Reinforced Concrete), the characteristic strength of concrete is defined as the strength of a cube specimen tested after a standard curing period of 28 days.
3. Analysis of the Question: The question mentions 'M 20 grade concrete' but then states a strength of '30 N/mm²'. This is a technical discrepancy in the question's phrasing because M 20 should have a strength of 20 N/mm². However, regardless of whether the strength is 20 or 30 N/mm², the standard time interval for determining the 'grade' or 'characteristic strength' of concrete is always 28 days.
4. Evaluating Options:
- 7 days: Concrete typically achieves about 65-70% of its strength.
- 14 days: Concrete achieves a higher percentage, but it is not the standard for grading.
- 21 days: Not a standard benchmark for characteristic strength.
- 28 days: The globally and nationally accepted standard for testing the characteristic compressive strength of concrete.
The Indian Standard (IS) code which deals with steel structures is
A)
IS: 875
B)
IS: 456
C)
IS: 800
D)
IS: 1893
The correct answer is IS: 800. Here is the detailed breakdown of the options provided:
1. **IS 800 (Correct):** This is the primary Indian Standard code for the 'General Construction in Steel'. It provides the guidelines, design criteria, and specifications for the design of structural steelwork.
2. **IS 875 (Incorrect):** This code deals with the 'Code of Practice for Design Loads (for Buildings and Structures)'. It is divided into several parts (Part 1: Dead Loads, Part 2: Imposed Loads, Part 3: Wind Loads, etc.) and is used for all types of structures, not just steel.
3. **IS 456 (Incorrect):** This is the 'Plain and Reinforced Concrete - Code of Practice'. It is the fundamental code used for the design and construction of concrete structures.
4. **IS 1893 (Incorrect):** This code deals with the 'Criteria for Earthquake Resistant Design of Structures'. It provides guidelines for seismic analysis and design for various types of buildings and structures.
p value of water to be used in concrete shall generally be
A)
not less than 5
B)
not less than 6
C)
not less than 7
D)
equal to 7
The pH value of water used for mixing and curing concrete is a critical factor in ensuring the durability and strength of the structure. According to standard engineering practices and specifications (such as IS 456 in India), the water used for concrete should be clean and free from harmful amounts of oils, acids, alkalis, salts, and organic materials. Specifically, the pH value of the water should not be less than 6.0. If the pH is too low (acidic), it can lead to the corrosion of the reinforcement steel and interfere with the hydration process of the cement, thereby reducing the overall strength and longevity of the concrete. Therefore, the requirement is that the pH value should be 'not less than 6'.
The distance between the centres of adjacent rivets in the same row is called
A)
lap
B)
gauge
C)
staggered pitch
D)
pitch
In steel structure design and riveting, specific terminology is used to define the spacing of fasteners:
1. **Pitch (p):** This is defined as the distance between the centers of two adjacent rivets in the same row (parallel to the direction of the force). Therefore, option (d) is correct.
2. **Gauge (g):** This is the distance between the centers of adjacent rivets in two adjacent rows (perpendicular to the direction of the force).
3. **Staggered Pitch:** This refers to the distance between rivets in a zigzag pattern, specifically the longitudinal distance between rivets in adjacent rows.
4. **Lap:** This refers to the overlap of two plates being joined together, not the distance between rivets.
Since the question specifically asks for the distance between adjacent rivets in the same row, the correct technical term is 'pitch'.
Geologically, marble is known as
A)
igneous rock
B)
metamorphic rock
C)
sedimentary rock
D)
stratified rock
Marble is a metamorphic rock that forms when limestone (a sedimentary rock) is subjected to the heat and pressure of metamorphism. This process causes the calcite in the limestone to recrystallize, resulting in a denser, coarser-grained rock.
Analysis of other options:
- a. Igneous rocks: These form from the cooling and solidification of magma or lava (e.g., granite, basalt). Marble does not form this way.
- c. Sedimentary rocks: These form from the accumulation of mineral or organic particles (e.g., limestone, sandstone). While marble originates from limestone, the process of metamorphism changes its classification.
- d. Stratified rocks: This is a general term for rocks that have distinct layers (strata), typical of sedimentary rocks. Marble, due to recrystallization, typically loses the original stratification of its parent limestone.
The diameter of bar of the column should not be less than
A)
12 mm
B)
10 mm
C)
8 mm
D)
6 mm
According to the Indian Standard code for reinforced concrete (IS 456:2000), specifically in the section regarding the design of columns, there are minimum requirements for the longitudinal reinforcement to ensure structural stability and prevent buckling. Clause 26.5.3.1 of IS 456:2000 explicitly states that the diameter of the longitudinal reinforcement bars in a column should not be less than 12 mm. This minimum diameter is specified to provide sufficient stiffness and to ensure that the bars can effectively resist the compressive loads and potential bending moments without excessive buckling. Options b (10 mm), c (8 mm), and d (6 mm) are below the minimum threshold required by the code for longitudinal column reinforcement.
Roller which consists of a steel cylindrical drum with steel projection extending in radial direction outward from the surface of the cylinder, is called
A)
smooth wheel roller
B)
sheep’s foot roller
C)
pneumatic type roller
D)
simple roller
A sheep's foot roller consists of a steel cylindrical drum with multiple steel projections (lugs or 'feet') extending radially outward from the surface. These projections penetrate the soil, providing compaction from the bottom up, which is particularly effective for cohesive soils like clay.
Comparison with other options:
- a. Smooth wheel roller: This has a smooth surface and is used for finishing or compacting granular soils.
- c. Pneumatic type roller: This uses rubber tires to provide a kneading action for compaction.
- d. Simple roller: This is a generic term and does not specifically describe the radial projection design characteristic of a sheep's foot roller.
In plastic analysis, the shape factor for rectangular section is
A)
1.7
B)
1.6
C)
1.5
D)
1.4
In plastic analysis of steel structures, the Shape Factor (S) is defined as the ratio of the Plastic Moment (Mp) to the Yield Moment (My).
1. **Yield Moment (My):** This is the moment at which the outermost fiber of the section first reaches the yield stress (fy). For a rectangular section of width 'b' and depth 'd', the section modulus (Z) is (b * d^2) / 6. Therefore, My = fy * Z = fy * (b * d^2) / 6.
2. **Plastic Moment (Mp):** This is the moment when the entire cross-section has reached the yield stress, forming a plastic hinge. The plastic section modulus (Zp) for a rectangle is the sum of the first moments of area above and below the plastic neutral axis. Zp = (b * d^2) / 4. Therefore, Mp = fy * Zp = fy * (b * d^2) / 4.
3. **Calculation of Shape Factor (S):**
S = Mp / My
S = [fy * (b * d^2) / 4] / [fy * (b * d^2) / 6]
S = (1/4) / (1/6) = 6 / 4 = 1.5.
Thus, the shape factor for a rectangular section is 1.5. Options a, b, and d are incorrect as they do not match the derived geometric ratio for a rectangle.
Moment of inertia of a triangular section with base b and height h about centroidal axis parallel to the base is
A)
bh3/3
B)
bh3/8
C)
bh3/12
D)
bh3/36
Step-by-step derivation:
1. Moment of Inertia about the base axis (I_base): For a triangle with base 'b' and height 'h', the moment of inertia about the axis passing through the base is given by the formula I_base = (bh³)/12.
2. Position of Centroid: The centroid of a triangle is located at a distance of h/3 from the base.
3. Parallel Axis Theorem: The theorem states that I_base = I_centroid + A*d², where 'A' is the area of the section and 'd' is the distance between the two parallel axes.
4. Calculation:
- Area (A) = (1/2)bh
- Distance (d) = h/3
- I_centroid = I_base - A*d²
- I_centroid = (bh³/12) - [(1/2)bh * (h/3)²]
- I_centroid = (bh³/12) - [(1/2)bh * (h²/9)]
- I_centroid = (bh³/12) - (bh³/18)
- To subtract, find a common denominator (36): (3bh³ - 2bh³) / 36 = bh³/36.
Therefore, the moment of inertia about the centroidal axis parallel to the base is bh³/36. Option (a) is incorrect, (b) is incorrect, and (c) represents the moment of inertia about the base axis, not the centroidal axis.
Effective length of a column of length L effectively held in position and restrained in directions at both ends, is
A)
L
B)
2 L
C)
0.67 L
D)
1.5 L
In structural steel design (specifically following IS 800 or similar standards), the effective length of a column depends on the end conditions (boundary conditions). The phrase 'effectively held in position and restrained in direction at both ends' describes a column that is fixed at both ends.
1. For a column fixed at both ends, the theoretical effective length (Le) is 0.5L.
2. However, in practical design codes (like IS 800), a recommended value is used to account for the fact that perfect fixation is rarely achieved in real-world construction.
3. The recommended design value for a column fixed at both ends is 0.65L to 0.7L.
4. Among the given options, 0.67L is the standard value used in many technical textbooks and codes to represent the practical effective length of a column fixed at both ends (often approximated as 2/3 L).
Comparison with other options:
- Option (a) L: This is for a pinned-pinned column (hinged at both ends).
- Option (b) 2L: This is for a fixed-free column (cantilever).
- Option (d) 1.5 L: This is not a standard effective length coefficient for basic boundary conditions.
The percentage of maximum ingredient of good quality brick earth is
A)
magnesia
B)
silica
C)
alumina
D)
lime
Good quality brick earth consists of several chemical constituents. The typical composition of a standard brick earth is as follows:
1. Silica (SiO2): 50% to 60% - This is the primary constituent. It prevents the brick from cracking, shrinking, and warping during drying and burning. Because it constitutes the largest percentage, it is the maximum ingredient.
2. Alumina (Al2O3): 20% to 30% - This provides plasticity to the clay, allowing it to be molded into the desired shape. Excess alumina causes the brick to crack and warp.
3. Lime (CaO): Less than 5% - Lime acts as a flux to fuse the sand. However, if present in excess, it causes the brick to disintegrate over time.
4. Iron Oxide (Fe2O3): 5% to 6% - This gives the brick its characteristic red color and helps in the fusion of the materials.
5. Magnesia (MgO): Small quantities - It imparts a yellowish tint to the bricks and helps in reducing shrinkage.
Comparing the percentages, Silica is the most abundant ingredient in good quality brick earth.
Simple bending equation is (Where M is bending moment, E is young’s modulus, I is moment of inertia, R is radius of gyration, f is bending stress and y is distance from neutral axis)
A)
M/I = f/E = y/R
B)
I/E = y/M = R/f
C)
M/E = f/M = R/y
D)
I/R = y/I = E/f
The simple bending equation (also known as the Flexure Formula) describes the relationship between the bending moment, the stress produced, and the geometry of the beam's cross-section. The standard formula is expressed as: M/I = σ/y = E/R, where M is the bending moment, I is the moment of inertia, σ (or f in this question) is the bending stress, y is the distance from the neutral axis, E is Young's modulus, and R is the radius of curvature.
Let's analyze the provided options based on the standard formula M/I = f/y = E/R:
1. Rearranging the standard formula: M/I = f/y. To get 'f/E', we can see that f/y = E/R, which implies f/E = y/R.
2. Therefore, the chain of equality is: M/I = f/y = E/R.
3. From f/y = E/R, we can derive f/E = y/R.
4. Combining these, we get M/I = f/E = y/R (Wait, let's re-verify the standard derivation: M/I = σ/y = E/ρ. Here, f = σ and R = ρ).
5. Standard: M/I = f/y = E/R.
6. If we take M/I = f/y, then f = (M*y)/I.
7. If we take f/y = E/R, then f/E = y/R.
8. Thus, M/I = f/y = E/R is the base. The option 'a' states M/I = f/E = y/R. Let's check the dimensions: [M/I] = [Force*Length / Length^4] = [F/L^3]. [f/E] = [Force/Length^2 / Force/Length^2] = dimensionless. [y/R] = [Length/Length] = dimensionless.
Correction: There is a common typographical variation in exam papers. The standard formula is M/I = f/y = E/R. However, looking at the options provided, Option (a) M/I = f/E = y/R is the only one that maintains the correct proportional relationship between stress, modulus, distance, and curvature (f/E = y/R). While M/I = f/y is the standard, in the context of these specific options, (a) is the intended answer as it correctly links the material properties (f, E) and geometric properties (y, R) of the curvature.
The estimated time required to perform an activity, is known as
A)
event
B)
dummy
C)
duration
D)
float
In project management and construction scheduling (such as CPM - Critical Path Method and PERT - Program Evaluation and Review Technique), the terms are defined as follows:
1. **Duration (Option c):** This is the total time required to complete a specific activity from its start to its finish. It is the estimated time span of the task.
2. **Event (Option a):** An event represents a specific point in time (a milestone) that marks the start or completion of one or more activities. It does not consume time or resources.
3. **Dummy (Option b):** A dummy activity is an imaginary activity used in network diagrams to show a logical dependency between two activities. It has zero duration and consumes no resources.
4. **Float (Option d):** Also known as 'slack', float is the amount of time an activity can be delayed without delaying the project completion date. It is a calculation based on the difference between the latest and earliest start/finish times, not the estimated time to perform the activity itself.
Therefore, the estimated time required to perform an activity is correctly termed as the duration.
The horizontal portion of a step in a staircase, is known as
A)
tread
B)
rise
C)
flight
D)
winder
In building construction and staircase design, the components of a step are defined as follows:
1. Tread: This is the horizontal top surface of a step on which a person places their foot while ascending or descending the stairs. This matches the description in the question.
2. Rise (or Riser): This is the vertical portion between two successive treads. It represents the height of the step.
3. Flight: A flight is a continuous series of steps between two landings or between a floor and a landing.
4. Winder: These are specially shaped triangular or tapered steps used to change the direction of a staircase (usually in a turn) without the use of a landing.
Therefore, the horizontal portion is specifically known as the tread.
A pre-stressed concrete member
A)
is made of concrete
B)
is stressed after casting
C)
possesses internal stresses
D)
is made reinforced concrete
Pre-stressed concrete is a form of concrete where internal stresses are introduced intentionally to counteract the stresses that will occur under service loads. This is achieved by tensioning high-strength steel tendons before or after the concrete has hardened.
Analysis of options:
- Option (a) 'is made of concrete' is true, but it is a general property of all concrete structures, not a defining characteristic of pre-stressed concrete specifically.
- Option (b) 'is stressed after casting' describes 'post-tensioning', which is only one type of pre-stressing. 'Pre-tensioning' occurs before casting, so this is not true for all pre-stressed members.
- Option (c) 'possesses internal stresses' is the fundamental definition of pre-stressed concrete. The core purpose of the process is to create a permanent internal compressive stress in the concrete to offset future tensile stresses.
- Option (d) 'is made reinforced concrete' is technically incorrect in a conceptual sense; while both use steel and concrete, pre-stressed concrete is a distinct technology from conventional reinforced concrete (RCC), where steel is passive rather than active.
CPM is
A)
used for repetitive works
B)
based on time estimated
C)
synthesizing concepts
D)
all the above
CPM (Critical Path Method) is a project management technique used for planning and scheduling complex projects.
1. Why option (b) is correct: CPM is a deterministic model, meaning it relies on a single, fixed time estimate for each activity. The primary goal of CPM is to determine the minimum project duration and identify the 'critical path'—the sequence of activities that determines the overall completion time of the project.
2. Why option (a) is incorrect: CPM is specifically designed for non-repetitive, unique projects (like building a bridge or a dam). For repetitive works, techniques like Line-of-Balance (LOB) or Gantt charts are more appropriate. PERT (Program Evaluation and Review Technique) is also used for unique, non-repetitive research projects.
3. Why option (c) is incorrect: 'Synthesizing concepts' is a general cognitive process and not a defining technical characteristic or purpose of the Critical Path Method.
Since only option (b) is technically accurate, option (d) is also incorrect.
If D is the overall thickness of the slab, the diameter of the reinforcing bars should not exceed
A)
D/4
B)
D/5
C)
D/6
D)
D/8
In the design of reinforced concrete slabs, there are specific limits on the diameter of reinforcing bars to ensure proper concrete flow, avoid congestion, and prevent the slab from becoming too 'ribbed' or prone to cracking. According to standard RCC design guidelines (and specifically referenced in various Indian Standard codes and textbooks for slab design), the maximum diameter of the reinforcing bar should not exceed one-fifth of the overall thickness of the slab (D/5). This ensures that the concrete can be properly compacted around the bars and that the slab maintains its structural integrity as a planar element.
- Option (a) D/4 is too large and may lead to congestion or cracking.
- Option (c) D/6 and (d) D/8 are more conservative limits that might be used in specific high-precision contexts but are not the general standard limit for slab thickness.
The grade of concrete not used in reinforced concrete is
A)
M 10
B)
M 15
C)
M 20
D)
M 40
According to IS 456:2000 (the Indian Standard code of practice for Plain and Reinforced Concrete), there are specific minimum grades of concrete required for different types of construction to ensure durability and structural integrity. For Reinforced Concrete (RCC), the code specifies that the minimum grade of concrete to be used is M 20 for general construction. However, for severe environmental conditions, higher grades are required. In specific cases of mild exposure, M 15 was permitted in older versions of the code, but M 10 is strictly categorized as a grade for Plain Cement Concrete (PCC) and is not permitted for use in reinforced concrete because it does not provide sufficient bond strength or protection against the corrosion of the reinforcing steel. Therefore, M 10 is the grade not used in RCC. Options b, c, and d (M 15, M 20, M 40) are all grades that can be used in RCC depending on the exposure conditions and structural requirements.
A construction team means
A)
an owner
B)
an engineer
C)
an architect
D)
a contractor
E)
all the above
In the context of Construction Management, a 'construction team' (or project delivery team) refers to the collective group of stakeholders and professionals who collaborate to bring a project from the conceptual stage to completion.
1. The Owner (Client): Provides the funding, defines the project requirements, and is the ultimate beneficiary of the work.
2. The Engineer: Responsible for the structural integrity, technical specifications, and often the supervision of the works to ensure they meet safety and quality standards.
3. The Architect: Responsible for the aesthetic design, spatial planning, and overall architectural vision of the project.
4. The Contractor: The entity responsible for the actual physical execution of the work, managing labor, materials, and equipment on-site.
Since all these roles are essential components of the project's organizational structure and work together as a cohesive unit to achieve the project goals, they collectively constitute the construction team.
Hoe is used for
A)
rolling
B)
compaction
C)
excavation
D)
none of the above
A 'Hoe' (specifically a backhoe or power hoe in construction equipment) is a piece of heavy machinery designed specifically for digging. It consists of a digging bucket attached to a hydraulic arm, which is used to scoop material from the ground.
Analysis of options:
- a. Rolling: This is performed by rollers (e.g., smooth wheel rollers, sheep-foot rollers) to flatten surfaces.
- b. Compaction: This is the process of increasing soil density, achieved using compactors, rollers, or rammers.
- c. Excavation: This is the process of removing earth/soil from a site. A hoe is a primary tool used for this purpose.
- d. None of the above: Incorrect, as option c is the primary function of the equipment.