1. Subgrade is the topmost layer of the natural soil on which the pavement structure is built.

It is prepared to receive the stress from the sub-base layer, which is the layer of material
placed on top of the subgrade and below the base course. The subgrade provides the
foundation for the pavement structure and plays a crucial role in distributing the load from
the traffic to the underlying soil. The asphalt layer and surface course are layers of the
pavement structure that are placed on top of the base course to provide a smooth riding
surface and protect the underlying layers from environmental factors such as water and
ultraviolet radiation.
Subgrade is the layer of natural soil prepared to receive the stress from sub-base layer.
2. Static wind loading is the force exerted by the wind on a building or structure when it is
at rest. The main factor that determines static wind loading is the geometry or shape of
the building, including its height, width, and shape. Buildings with larger surface areas
perpendicular to the wind direction and with taller heights experience higher wind loads.
On the other hand, earthquake loading is determined by a combination of factors,
including the stiffness of the structure, the soil type of the foundation, and the mass of
the structure. The stiffness of the structure affects how it responds to the seismic waves,
while the soil type and mass of the structure affect the ground motion and its transmission
to the structure.
The geometry/shape of the building is the main factor that determines static wind
loading, while earthquake loading is determined by a combination of factors.
3. Tertiary consolidation settlement is not a recognized category of soil settlement. The
three recognized categories of soil settlement are primary consolidation settlement,
secondary settlement, and immediate settlement. Primary consolidation settlement
occurs when the excess pore water pressure in the soil is dissipated over time due to
drainage, resulting in a reduction of soil volume and settlement.
Secondary settlement occurs due to the continued rearrangement and compression of soil
particles after the completion of primary consolidation.
Immediate settlement occurs due to the elastic deformation of the soil when a load is
applied.
Tertiary consolidation is not a recognized mechanism of soil settlement and is not
considered in geotechnical engineering.
 4. Sight distance at intersections is an important consideration in road design and traffic
safety. It is the length of road visible to the driver at any given point, and it is used to
determine safe stopping distances, passing zones, and other traffic maneuvers. Sight
distance is determined by several factors, including the height of the driver's eye above the
road surface, the height of objects near the roadway, and the curvature of the road. Sight
distance is used to enable approaching vehicles to change speed or stop safely, and to
enable stopped vehicles to cross a main road safely.
However, it is not used to enable parking at road intersections, as parking can interfere
with sight lines and create unsafe driving conditions.
Sight distance at intersections may not be used to enable parking at road intersections.
5. The shear strength of reinforced concrete beams is primarily influenced by the
longitudinal reinforcement ratio (amount of longitudinal steel reinforcement), shear
reinforcement amount (amount of stirrups or ties), and concrete strength. Compression
reinforcement ratio, on the other hand, mainly affects the flexural strength and ductility
of the beam, and has less influence on the shear strength.

6. Valuation refers to the process of determining the value of an asset, such as a company,
property, or investment. The purpose of valuation is to provide an estimate of the worth of
the asset in question, which can be used for a variety of purposes, such as setting a price
for the asset, determining a company's net worth, or assessing the potential return on an
investment. This can be useful for investors, business owners, and other stakeholders who
need to make decisions about the asset in question.
Valuation is not intended to help borrowers obtain overvalued loans, as this could put both the
borrower and the lender at risk of default or foreclosure. The purpose of valuation is to provide an
objective estimate of the value of an asset, which can be used for a variety of purposes, such as
buying or selling the asset, making acquisition decisions, securing loans or mortgages, and other
financial and legal purposes.
7. Interchange is the term used to describe combinations of ramps and grade separations
designed as a system of interconnecting roadways to separate the turning and through
movements at the junction of two or more roads.
An interchange is a complex network of roadways that allows vehicles to move from one road to
another without having to stop at an intersection. It typically consists of a combination of grade
separations (overpasses and underpasses) and ramps that are arranged in a specific pattern to
facilitate traffic movement between the intersecting roadways. Interchanges are commonly used
in urban areas to reduce traffic congestion and improve traffic flow.

8. Project closeout is the final step in the project management process, which involves
completing and delivering the final product or service to the client and closing out all
project-related activities. Some of the activities involved in project closeout include project
acceptance, contract closeout, project completion, and documentation of lessons learned.
However, project planning is not a part of the project closeout process. Instead, project
planning is one of the initial stages of the project management process, which involves
defining project objectives, selecting a project team, and developing a project plan.

Project planning is not part of project closeout.

9. If the factor of safety against sliding falls below the required value while designing a
retaining wall, the remedial measure considered is to increase the base width of the wall.

The factor of safety against sliding is an important consideration in the design of retaining walls,
as it ensures that the wall is stable against horizontal forces such as soil pressure and water
pressure. If the factor of safety against sliding falls below the required value, it indicates that the
wall may be prone to sliding or overturning under certain conditions. To address this issue, the
base width of the wall can be increased to provide more stability and resistance against
horizontal forces. Increasing the height of the wall or decreasing the height or base width of the
wall may not be effective in improving the factor of safety against sliding.
 10. Increased flexural strength is not a reason for providing minimum concrete cover in RC
members.
The main reasons for providing minimum concrete cover in RC members are to increase durability
by protecting the reinforcement from corrosion, to increase fire resistance, and to provide adequate
bond strength between the reinforcement and the surrounding concrete.
The bond strength between the reinforcement and the surrounding concrete is important because
it directly affects the load-carrying capacity of the RC member. A sufficient concrete cover helps
to ensure good bond between the reinforcement and the concrete, which can increase the load-
carrying capacity and the overall strength of the member.
While the concrete cover can indirectly affect the flexural strength of RC members by protecting
the reinforcement from corrosion and increasing the bond strength, it is not primarily provided to
increase the flexural strength of the member. The flexural strength of RC members is primarily
determined by the size and grade of the reinforcement, the strength of the concrete, and the
geometry and dimensions of the member.

11. The Prismoidal formula is commonly used in civil engineering for calculating the volume
of earthwork in road projects, particularly for irregularly shaped areas. It involves dividing
the area into a series of prisms and calculating each prism's volume using the trapezoidal
formula. The summation of all the prism volumes gives the total volume of earthwork. The
triangular formula is used for simple triangular areas Simpson's 5/8 formula is used for
finding the area under a curve, and the spherical formula is used for calculating the volume
of a sphere or spherical shape.

Prismoidal formula is used for the computation of the volume of earthwork in a road project.

12. An effective and efficient procurement method ensures that the right goods or services
are procured in the right quantity, at the right time, from the right supplier, and at the right
price. These are commonly referred to as the five rights of procurement. The right quality
and the right counterpart (supplier) are also important considerations in procurement.
However, the procurement process is not intended to ensure the right profit, as this is
primarily the concern of the supplier or vendor providing the goods or services. The focus
 of procurement is to obtain the required goods or services at a fair and reasonable price,
while ensuring that the needs of the organization are met.
The Right Profit is not one of the rights ensured by an effective and efficient procurement method.
13. While water used for concrete curing can contribute to the initial moisture content of the
building materials, it is not considered as one of the main sources of dampness in buildings
during service. The main sources of dampness in buildings during service include moisture
rising up the walls from the ground (known as rising damp), rainwater penetrating
through the building envelope, and condensation resulting from high humidity levels or
temperature differentials between the inside and outside of the building. Rain travel from
wall tops and rain beating against external walls can also contribute to dampness in
buildings.

14. Soil boring during site investigation can have various environmental impacts, such as
disturbance of wildlife habitat, soil erosion, and air and water pollution. The construction
of sheet pile walls, for example, can impact aquatic life by altering the water flow and
reducing the availability of oxygen and nutrients. Deep excavation can cause damage to
nearby buildings or infrastructure, and a collapse of struts in cofferdams can cause loss of
life. However, the health hazards associated with different types of caissons are not
necessarily an environmental issue, but rather a safety and health concern for workers
involved in construction.
Pneumatic caissons being less of a health hazard than other types of caissons is not an
environmental issue related to soil boring during site investigation.
15. Quantity surveying is a field of expertise in the construction industry that involves
managing costs and contracts for construction projects. The tasks typically covered in
quantity surveying include preparation of approximate (preliminary) cost estimates at
the early stage of the project, preparation of specifications, taking measurements of
civil works, preparing bills of quantities, preparing tender documentation, and
contract administration. However, preparation of construction drawings is typically
the responsibility of architects, engineers, or draftspersons who specialize in technical
drawing and design.
 16. The quality of construction of the piles should not be reduced, regardless of whether they
are cast-in-situ piles or not. The geotechnical site investigation suggests that the building
site has a shallow depth of groundwater and a layer of sand soil followed by clayey sand.
In this scenario, the use of casings during the construction of the piles is necessary to
prevent the hole from collapsing and to prevent water from seeping into the hole.
Caution must also be taken while pouring the concrete to prevent segregation of the
concrete mix due to the presence of water. Designing the foundation to account for the
groundwater conditions is also important to ensure the stability of the high-rise building.
As the piles are cast-in-situ piles, the quality of construction of the piles can be reduced, is
not true.
17. The cause of swelling and shrinkage problem in expansive soils is the existence of more
montmorillonite mineral in the soil.
The answer is C:
The cause of swelling and shrinkage problem in expansive soils is the presence of
montmorillonite clay minerals in the soil. Montmorillonite has a layered structure that can
absorb water between its layers, causing it to swell. As the soil gains or loses water, the
montmorillonite clay swells or shrinks, causing volume changes in the soil.
The other options are incorrect:
A. The color of the soil is not the cause of swelling and shrinkage.
B. Illite clay minerals do not typically cause much swelling. They have a layered structure
that does not absorb as much water as montmorillonite.
D. Kaolinite clay minerals also do not typically cause much swelling. Their structure does
not allow for significant water absorption between layers.
So in summary, the presence of montmorillonite clay minerals in the soil causes expansive soil
behaviors like swelling and shrinkage. Montmorillonite has the ability to absorb large quantities
of water between its layers, resulting in significant volume changes as the soil gains or loses water.
The key is the presence of expansive montmorillonite clay, not the other clay types or physical
properties listed in the other options.
18. The soil state at which its mean effective stress is zero due to the seeping water is called
"quick condition" or "quick state." In this state, the soil loses its strength and behaves like
a fluid. This phenomenon is also known as "liquefaction."
Option B, "Static liquefaction," refers to the liquefaction of soil that is not subjected to
any external loads or vibrations.
Option A, "Critical state," refers to a state of soil deformation where there is no further
change in volume with increasing pressure.
Option C, "Densification," refers to a process in which soil particles are rearranged,
resulting in an increase in soil density.
Option D, "Consolidation," refers to the process by which soil settles and compacts over
time due to the weight of overlying materials.
19. The external stability analysis of conventional retaining walls involves checking for three
types of failure modes: sliding, overturning, and bearing capacity. Sliding occurs when
the wall slides along the base material, overturning occurs when the wall rotates about the
bottom edge, and bearing capacity failure occurs when the soil beneath the base of the
wall fails due to excessive load. Nail pullout is not typically considered in the external
stability analysis of conventional retaining walls, as it is a factor that is more relevant to
the internal stability analysis of walls that rely on soil-nail reinforcement.
Nail pullout is not considered in the external stability analysis of conventional retaining
walls.
20. Common cause failures of dams are those that arise from a single event that affects multiple
components or systems of the dam. The most common causes of failure of dams include:
A. Structural failure: This occurs when the dam's structure is unable to withstand the
forces placed upon it, leading to failure of the dam.
B. Hydraulic failure: This occurs when the water pressure on the dam exceeds the design
capacity, leading to failure of the dam.
C. Seepage failure: This occurs when water seeps through the dam, leading to erosion of
the soil or foundation beneath the dam, and eventually causing the dam to fail.
D. Traffic over crest: This is not a common cause of failure for dams. While excessive
traffic or weight on the crest of a dam can potentially cause damage, it is not a common
cause of dam failure.
Therefore, the answer is (D) Traffic over crest.
 21. C. Salvage excavated topsoil for landscaping is NOT a negative environmental issue that
happens during civil engineering operation.
• Negative environmental issues that can occur during civil engineering operations
include:
A. Construction of masonry retaining walls intercepts drainage lines: This can lead to
the diversion of natural drainage patterns, leading to increased erosion and flooding.
B. Land sliding during excavations: Excavations can destabilize slopes, leading to
landslides, rockfalls, and other forms of slope failure.
D. Depletion of construction material: The extraction of construction materials such as
sand, gravel, and rock can lead to the depletion of natural resources, habitat destruction,
and loss of biodiversity.
Salvaging excavated topsoil for landscaping is actually a positive environmental practice.
Topsoil is a valuable resource, and salvaging it can help reduce the amount of soil erosion,
improve soil quality, and promote revegetation of disturbed areas.
Therefore, the answer is (C) Salvage excavated topsoil for landscaping.
22. The main purpose of drawing a flow net is to determine the seepage forces acting on
structures like dams, retaining walls and foundations.
A flow net shows:
✓ Flow lines: These indicate the direction of water flowing through the soil.
✓ Equipotential lines: These connect points of equal total head.
From the flow net, we can determine:
✓ Seepage velocity: The rate of water flow through the soil.
✓ Hydraulic gradient: The change in total head per unit length.
These parameters allow us to calculate:
✓ Uplift force: The upward pressure on the structure from water underneath.
✓ Hydrostatic pressure: The lateral water pressure against the structure.
So in summary, a flow net allows us to:
✓ Analyze seepage conditions
✓ Determine the seepage forces acting on the structure.
 This is done by establishing the flow lines, equipotential lines, seepage velocity and hydraulic
gradient.
The main purpose is NOT simply to:
✓ Estimate the amount of flow (Option A)
✓ Draw flow lines (Option B)
✓ Reduce seepage (Option C)
While those things are part of a flow net analysis, the ultimate goal is to calculate seepage forces.
Therefore, the correct answer is Option D: To draw equipotential lines.
The flow lines show the direction of flow but the equipotential lines, in combination with the flow
lines, allow us to determine hydraulic gradient and seepage velocity and ultimately the seepage
forces.
23. Among the options provided, steel formwork material has the highest number of reuse
cycles.
Steel formwork:
✓ Can withstand high pressures and withstands repetitive use.
✓ Is durable and can last for many years.
✓ Requires little maintenance and repair.
✓ Can be used for 50-100 reuse cycles.
In comparison:
✓ Plywood and timber formwork typically lasts for 3-5 reuse cycles
✓ Aluminum formwork can last for 10-30 reuse cycles
So the answer is A: Steel has the highest number of reuse cycles among the options.
24. C. incorrect - the water pressure due to water below the dredge line should not be ignored
during the analysis of sheet pile retaining walls. It is an important load that must be considered.
The dredge line refers to the level to which the soil is excavated. For sheet pile walls retaining
excavations, there is typically groundwater below the dredge line that exerts lateral pressure on the
wall. This pressure acts in the same direction as the lateral earth pressure from the retained soil.
The water pressure below the dredge line should be calculated and included in the total lateral
load used to design the sheet pile wall. There are a few reasons for this:
❖ The water pressure can be significant. It increases with depth below the dredge line and
can contribute substantially to the total lateral load on the wall.
❖ Ignoring the water pressure would lead to an unconservative design. The calculated earth
pressures would be too low, and the wall may not have adequate capacity.
❖ The water pressure will act on the wall regardless, so it must be sized to resist this load for
stability.
❖ Anchoring systems, if used, must also be designed to account for the total lateral load which
includes water pressure.
So in summary, the water pressure due to groundwater below the dredge line should not be ignored
during the analysis of sheet pile retaining walls. It is an important lateral load that must be
considered to ensure an adequate and safe wall design.
 25. The advantages gained by using timber as a building structure material include:
A. High strength to weight ratio: Timber is lightweight but also strong, making it an
efficient and effective building material for structural applications.
B. Fire risk: Timber is combustible and can be a fire hazard if not properly protected or
treated with fire retardant chemicals.
C. High resistance to warping, bending, and cracking: Timber is less likely to warp, bend,
or crack than many other building materials, making it a reliable choice for building structures.
D. High resistance to decay: Timber can be treated with preservatives to resist decay and
insect damage, making it a durable choice for building structures.

26. The Portland Cement Association is NOT usually used for the structural design of flexible
rigid pavement.
Flexible and rigid pavements are two types of roadways used in transportation engineering.
Flexible pavements are made of asphalt concrete layers, while rigid pavements are made of
Portland cement concrete layers. The structural design of flexible and rigid pavements requires
different methods and approaches.
For the design of flexible pavements, the Asphalt Institute and the American Association of State
Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) are commonly used. The AASHTO also
provides design guidelines for rigid pavements, along with the National Cooperative Highway
Research Program (NCHRP).
The Portland Cement Association (PCA) is an industry trade group that focuses on promoting
the use of Portland cement concrete in construction. While the PCA provides valuable resources
and information on the use of concrete in construction, it is not typically used as a design method
for the structural design of flexible or rigid pavements.
Therefore, the answer is (B) The Portland Cement Association.
27. To estimate the plan dimensions of the square footing, we need to follow these steps:
✓ Calculate the total load on the footing.
✓ Determine the allowable bearing capacity of the soil.
✓ Calculate the required area of the footing.
✓ Determine the plan dimensions of the square footing.
Step 1: Calculate the total load on the footing
Total Load = Dead Load + Live Load
Total Load = 500 kN (dead load) + 400 kN (live load)
Total Load = 900 kN
Step 2: Determine the allowable bearing capacity of the soil
Allowable Bearing Capacity = Ultimate Bearing Capacity / Factor of Safety
Allowable Bearing Capacity = 350 kPa / 1.5
Allowable Bearing Capacity ≈ 233.33 kPa
Step 3: Calculate the required area of the footing
Required Area = Total Load / Allowable Bearing Capacity
Required Area = 900 kN / 233.33 kPa
Required Area ≈ 3.857 m²
Step 4: Determine the plan dimensions of the square footing
Since the footing is square, both sides will have the same length.
Side Length = √ (Required Area)
Side Length = √ (3.857 m²)
Side Length ≈ 1.964 m
To provide a practical and conservative estimate, we can round up the side length to the nearest
0.1 m:
Side Length ≈ 2.0 m
❖ Therefore, the plan dimensions of the square footing should be approximately 2.0 m x 2.0 m.

OR
Explanation:
Given,
Dead load = 500 kN
Live load = 400 kN
Factor of safety = 1.5
Ultimate bearing capacity of sand = 350 kPa
The ultimate bearing capacity of the soil is given by,
Qu = c'Nc + q'Nq + 0.5𝜌BN𝛾…………………. The Terzaghi bearing capacity equation
were,
c' = effective cohesion
Nc, Nq = bearing capacity factors for cohesion and friction
q' = effective unit weight
B, N = width and depth of the footing
𝜌, 𝛾 = unit weight and bulk density of soil
For square footing, B = L
Assuming the effective cohesion, c' = 0, and effective unit weight, q' = 𝜌g = 18.5 kN/m³, we can
find the bearing capacity factors from the table.
From the table, for a medium-dense sand, Nc = 29, and Nq = 26.
Substituting the values in the bearing capacity equation, we get:
350 = 0 + 18.5 × 26 × B + 0.5 × 18.5 × B × 29
Solving for B, we get:
B = 1.6 m
Therefore, the plan dimensions of the footing will be BxL = 1.6 x 1.6 m².
28. Salvaging excavated topsoil for landscaping is actually a positive environmental practice,
as it can help to preserve the natural topsoil and reduce the need for additional soil
amendments or fertilizers. This practice can also help to control erosion and promote
healthy plant growth.
On the other hand, the other options listed are all negative environmental issues that can occur
during civil engineering operations:
A. Construction of masonry retaining walls intercepts drainage lines, which can lead
to localized flooding and waterlogging.
B. Land sliding during excavations can cause soil erosion, slope instability, and
damage to nearby structures.
C. Depletion of construction material can lead to the loss of natural resources and
habitat destruction, as well as increased energy consumption and greenhouse gas
emissions associated with the production and transportation of new materials.
Therefore, option C is the correct answer.
29. Quality of traffic range in size different levels from A to F The Answer is D
1. A is considered as the best quality of traffic where the driver can enjoy his drive
with better flow and speed of their own choice. While level F stands for worst
quality of traffic. A stand for free flow where the motorist has the ability to move
between the lanes. There is a high level of physical and psychological comfort to
the drivers.
2. B stands for reasonable free flow where the speed of vehicles is maintained,
flexibility for moving between the lanes within the traffic is slightly limited. There
is a high level of physical and psychological comfort to the drivers.
3. C stands for stable flow or near free flow. The mobility of changing lanes require
drivers attention and is noticeably limited compared to other. Experienced drivers
are comfortable. The minor occurrence may not have a great effect but service will
show noticeable effects and there is a chance of traffic delays.
4. D signifies proceed towards the unstable flow. Speed decreases as the number of
vehicles slightly increase. Freedom for changing the lanes within the traffic stream
is quite limited and the driver’s level of comfort decreases. Minor occurrence on
the roads can create delays for the others. This is usually found common on urban
streets during the time of peak hours.
5. E is unstable Flow because of the lesser or unusable gaps, the flow becomes
irregular and the speed can increase or decrease. The traffic rarely reaches to its
appropriate limit or suggested limit. Speed is nearby or above 50 ml/h. Shockwave
is created when there is change is lane or merging of traffic. Any accidents may
cause a noticeable delay. Level of comfortability in this flow becomes poor for the
driver. In urban areas usually, we face this problem because of the road congestion
which cannot be changed.
It is characterized by levels of basic elements of comfort and convenience that are
very poor, traffic flow conditions that are best described as unstable, and
F leads to a breakdown of the flow. The time for traveling is not predicted, usually,
it takes more than its capacity. A Highway may face Level of Service D during its
busy hours with C some days and F at other days or once in a week.
traffic movement that is on a ‘stop-go’ basis.
 30. The answer is B: Stabilizing expansive soils with granular material.
The other options do not directly reduce the negative impact on the environment:
A. Damping excavated expansive soils in a far place simply moves the soil, it does not
mitigate its effects. This does not reduce environmental impact.
C. Using cast in place concrete piles versus precast piles has no direct environmental
impact.
D. Paving walkways with white concrete apron has no meaningful impact on the
environment.

However, option B - stabilizing expansive soils with granular material - can reduce the negative
environmental impact as follows:

Expansive soils can cause significant damage to structures through swelling and shrinking with
changes in moisture content.

Stabilizing these soils by mixing with granular materials like sand and gravel can reduce their
expansive potential.

This stabilization can prevent damage to structures built on these soils.

Preventing structural damage reduces the need for repair and reconstruction activities, which have
environmental impacts through the use of materials, energy and emissions.

So in summary, only option B describes a mechanism that can directly reduce the negative
environmental impact due to construction on expansive soils - by stabilizing the soils to prevent
future damage and associated repair/reconstruction impacts.

The other options do not have any meaningful impact on the environment, positive or negative.
 31. The environmental factor that does NOT influence the strength of concrete at an early age
of development is option B, which states "Light conditions during curing."
Light conditions during curing do not have a significant impact on the strength development of
concrete. However, the other options listed are important environmental factors that can
significantly influence the strength of concrete at an early age of development:
A. Moisture conditions during curing: The presence of moisture is critical for the chemical
reactions that occur during the curing process, which contribute to the strength development of
concrete.
C. Pressure conditions during steam curing: The application of pressure can accelerate the curing
process and increase the strength development of concrete, particularly in the case of steam curing.
D. Temperature conditions during curing: Temperature is one of the most important environmental
factors that can affect the strength development of concrete. In general, higher curing temperatures
can accelerate the curing process and increase the strength of concrete, while lower temperatures
can slow down the curing process and reduce the strength development.
Therefore, option B is the correct answer.
32. The advantage gained in using reinforced concrete over steel in the construction of bridges
is option A, which states Less affected by corrosion
Reinforced concrete is less affected by corrosion than steel, as the concrete cover provides a
barrier that protects the reinforcing steel from corrosion. In contrast, steel bridges are more
susceptible to corrosion, which can weaken the structure and reduce its service life. The use of
reinforced concrete can therefore help to improve the durability and longevity of bridges,
particularly in harsh or corrosive environments.
While options B, C, and D are also advantages of reinforced concrete, they are not advantages
specifically gained over steel:
B. Less material usage: Reinforced concrete typically requires more material than steel, due to the
need for additional concrete to provide the necessary cover and support for the reinforcing steel.
C. Less prone to cracking: Both reinforced concrete and steel can be prone to cracking if not
designed and constructed properly. However, the use of high-quality materials and proper
construction techniques can help to minimize the risk of cracking in both types of structures.
D. High resistance to cracking: While concrete is generally more resistant to cracking than steel,
the resistance to cracking depends on a variety of factors such as the quality of the materials used,
the design of the structure, and the construction techniques used.
Therefore, option A is the correct answer
33. D
34. A. To increase the workability of fresh concrete.
The main purpose of mixing water in concrete is to increase the workability of fresh concrete.
Workability refers to the ease with which concrete can be placed, compacted, and finished without
segregation or bleeding. A proper amount of water is necessary to make the concrete mix plastic
and workable, so it can be poured, placed, and finished.
35. B. To control the amount of water discharging.
Controlling the amount of water discharging is not the primary objective of a surveillance
programme for a dam. The primary objective of a surveillance programme is to ensure the safety
and stability of the dam and to minimize the possibility of catastrophic failure. This is achieved
through regular monitoring and inspection of the dam and its surroundings, as well as the review
of performance data and the implementation of maintenance and repair activities as needed.
While the amount of water discharging from the dam is an important parameter to monitor, it is
not the primary objective of a surveillance programme. Rather, it is one of many factors that are
monitored as part of an overall effort to ensure the safety and stability of the dam.
36. C. Work break down is NOT a technique used to produce a schedule.

Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) is a technique used to break down a project into smaller,
more manageable components, but it is not used to produce a schedule. A WBS is a hierarchical
decomposition of the project scope into smaller, more manageable work packages and
deliverables.

On the other hand, CPM (Critical Path Method), PERT (Program Evaluation and Review
Technique), and Bar Charts are all techniques used to produce a schedule for a project.

CPM and PERT are network-based techniques that use a graphical representation of the project
activities and their dependencies to determine the optimal schedule and critical path. The critical
path is the longest path of activities that determines the shortest possible duration of the project.
Bar Charts, also known as Gantt charts, are graphical representations of a project schedule that
show the start and end dates of each activity, as well as their duration and dependencies. Bar charts
are commonly used to communicate the schedule to project stakeholders and to track progress
against the planned schedule.

37. C. Approximate graphical method.

When material and site investigation works are not available, the best approach for design and
analysis is to use an approximate graphical method. This approach involves making assumptions
about the properties of the soil and other materials, based on experience and judgment. Graphical
methods allow for the quick and simple analysis of a problem, without requiring detailed
information about the site or materials.
Using software-based advanced methods, such as SEEP/W or SIGMA/W components of
Geoslope, may not be appropriate when material and site investigation works are not available, as
these methods require accurate input data for accurate results. Similarly, latest software-based
advanced methods may not be appropriate when the necessary data is not available, as these
methods typically require more detailed information than approximate graphical methods.
38. The bearing capacity of soil that takes into account a required factor of safety for shear
and settlement is called the "allowable bearing capacity."

The allowable bearing capacity is the maximum pressure that can be applied to the soil without
causing shear failure or excessive settlement. It is calculated by dividing the safe bearing capacity
by a factor of safety that accounts for uncertainties in soil properties and loading conditions.

The other options listed in the question are also related to bearing capacity, but they have different
meanings:

The safe bearing capacity is the maximum pressure that can be applied to the soil without causing
shear failure, but it does not take into account a factor of safety.

The ultimate bearing capacity is the theoretical maximum pressure that can be applied to the soil
before shear failure occurs, regardless of any factor of safety.

The net ultimate bearing capacity is the ultimate bearing capacity minus the weight of the soil
above the failure surface.
Therefore, the correct answer to the question is D. Allowable bearing capacity.

39. The answer is C. The kern.

For effective and economical design of footings, the resultant force from the structure should pass
through the kern of the footing. This is the point of least moment.
The options:
A) Toe of the footing - If the force passes through the toe, it will create high bending moments.
This results in a thickened and uneconomical footing.
B) Heel of the footing - Passing the force through the heel will also create high bending moments,
requiring a thicker footing.
C) The kern - The kern is the point of least moment. When the force passes through this point, it
results in the minimum bending moment and thickness of the footing. This makes the design
economical.
D) The first third - Passing the force through the first third of the footing will still create higher
moments compared to passing through the kern.
So in summary, passing the resultant force through the kern (point of least moment) of the footing
results in the most efficient and economical design, as it minimizes the bending moment and
thickness required for the footing.
40. The statement that is NOT true about a mass diagram in a road project is:
D. Balance line is any horizontal line, cutting off a loop of the mass curve, and is equal to the fill.
A mass diagram is a graphical representation of the cumulative amount of earthwork (cut or fill)
required on a road project, plotted against the horizontal distance along the road. The mass
diagram helps to determine the quantities and locations of cut and fill required for the project, as
well as to check the balance of cut and fill.
The other statements about a mass diagram are true:
A. If the final point on the mass diagram is a positive amount, it indicates a net shortage of
earthwork for the project.
B. The maximum and minimum points on the mass diagram occur at or near to the grade points
on the profile.
C. The final point on a mass diagram for a given project gives the overall net amount of
earthwork for the entire project.
Regarding option D, a balance line is a horizontal line drawn on the mass diagram that cuts off a
loop of the mass curve and represents the difference between the cut and fill quantities for that
segment of the road. The balance line is not necessarily equal to the fill quantity, as it can also
represent the cut quantity depending on the location of the loop on the mass diagram.
Therefore, the correct answer to the question is D. Balance line is any horizontal line, cutting
off a loop of the mass curve, and is equal to the fill.
41. mean wind velocity Vm(z) at a height z above the terrain does not depend on

42. The correct answer is B.

The design of caissons is based on the following criteria:
✓ The external walls of a concrete caissons is designed to withstand lateral loads.
✓ The external walls of a concrete caissons is designed to withstand vertical loads.
✓ Internal walls are designed to share vertical loads with external walls of the concrete
caisson.
✓ Construction joints, if any, in concrete caissons should be placed at the top of the
caisson.
 43. The answer is B. The shape of the building.
The seismic force acting on a building depends on:
A) The mass of the building: Heavier buildings generate larger seismic forces since they
have more inertia when shaken during an earthquake. Mass is directly proportional to the
seismic force.
C) The lateral stiffness of the building: Stiffer buildings create larger seismic forces since
they offer more resistance to lateral deformation during shaking. Stiffness is directly
proportional to seismic force.
D) The structural system of the building: Some structural systems like moment frames are
better at resisting seismic forces compared to other systems like shear walls. The structural
system affects the seismic force.
B) The shape of the building: The shape of the building - whether it is rectangular, L-
shaped, etc. - has little to no influence on the seismic force generated.
Out of the options given, the seismic force acting on a building does NOT depend on the
shape of the building. The other factors - mass, stiffness and structural system - do
influence the seismic force to varying degrees.
In summary, the seismic force depends mainly on the mass and stiffness of the building structure.
The structural system chosen also affects how the seismic force is distributed and resisted. But the
shape of the building has little bearing on the actual seismic force generated.
44. The answer is D. Ductility.
The options mean:
A) Stiffness: Resistance to deformation under an applied force. The opposite of
flexibility.
B) Viscosity: The resistance of a fluid to flow due to internal friction. Viscosity
determines how thin or thick a fluid is.
C) Flexibility: Ability to bend and deform easily without breaking. Flexible materials
undergo large deformations with small stresses.
D) Ductility: The property of a material that allows it to undergo large plastic
deformations before fracture. Ductility permits a material to stretch or elongate greatly.
Since the question asks about the property of bitumen that allows it to undergo great
deformation or elongation, the correct answer is ductility.
 45. The solution is as follows:
Given:
Width (b) = 300 mm
Gross depth (D) = 600 mm
Effective depth (d) = 550 mm
Step 1: Find area of concrete = bD = 300*600 = 180000 mm2
Step 2: Find area of steel = (db)/4 = (550*300)/4 = 81250 mm2
(Assuming steel located at corners)
Step 3: Ratio of steel to concrete = As/Ac = 81250/180000 = 0.45
At balanced failure, the neutral axis depth corresponds to a ratio of 0.5.
Therefore, neutral axis depth (x) = 0.5 * d = 0.5 * 550 = 275 mm
The answer is C. 275 mm
The solution involves calculating the ratio of steel area to concrete area (As/Ac) based on the
given dimensions. At balanced failure condition, this ratio is 0.5. So the neutral axis depth that
corresponds to a ratio of 0.5 is 0.5 times the effective depth.
46. The answer is B. Channelization.
Channelization refers to the separation of traffic flows through the use of traffic islands, pavement
markings, signs, and other devices. This is done to facilitate the orderly movement of vehicles and
pedestrians through intersections and road sections.
The options mean:
A) Grade separated intersection: An intersection where the crossing traffic streams are separated
in different levels, using overpasses/underpasses.
C) At-grade intersection: An intersection where two or more roads cross at the same road level.
No separation in grades.
D) Interchange: A system of interconnecting roads which allow traffic to pass from one road to
another without crossing traffic streams.
The definition provided - separation of conflicting traffic movements into paths using traffic
islands and markings - describes channelization. Channelization separates and regulates traffic
through the use of physical and visual cues.
So the answer is B. Channelization. The other options - grade separated intersections, at-grade
intersections and interchanges - do not match the definition given.
 47. The answer is C. Grade separated intersection.
The options mean:
A) Interchange: A system of interconnecting roads that allows traffic to pass from one road to
another without crossing traffic streams.
B) Channelization: The separation of conflicting traffic movements into paths using devices like
traffic islands and pavement markings.
D) At-grade intersection: An intersection where two or more roads cross at the same level, with
no difference in grades.
C) Grade separated intersection: An intersection where the crossing traffic streams are separated
vertically into different levels, using overpasses/underpasses. This matches the description in the
question of two highways crossing "at a different grade, with no connections."
48. The purpose of painting is not to prevent cracking. Therefore, the correct answer is B. To
prevent cracking.
Painting is a common finishing technique used to protect and decorate various surfaces, such as
wood, metal, and masonry. The primary purposes of painting include:
A. To protect the surface from weathering effects of the atmosphere, such as UV radiation,
moisture, and temperature changes. Paints can provide a barrier to protect the underlying surface
from damage and deterioration.
C. To protect against the decay of wood and corrosion of metals. Paints can prevent moisture
from penetrating the surface, which can help to prevent rotting in wood and rusting in metal.
D. To provide a decorative finish. Paints are available in a variety of colors and finishes, and can
be used to enhance the aesthetics of a surface.
Paints can also provide other benefits, such as improving the cleanliness of surfaces, increasing
visibility, and providing a non-slip surface.
49. The answer is D. Deformation of the dam body.
SEEP/W is a finite element software used for analyzing seepage problems. Some of the outputs
that can be obtained when analyzing an embankment dam using SEEP/W include:
A) Flow net plot - A graphical plot of the flow paths and equipotential lines within the dam.
B) Pressure head distribution along the base of the dam - Shows how the total head varies along
the base.
C) Discharge through the dam body - Gives the total seepage flow rate through the embankment.
However, SEEP/W is a seepage analysis software. It does not determine:
D) Deformation of the dam body - This requires a structural analysis to determine dam
deformations/displacements under loading. SEEP/W only considers fluid flow.
So the output that cannot be obtained from SEEP/W is the deformation of the dam body. SEEP/W
is used to analyze seepage and pore water pressure issues in dams. It does not analyze structural
behavior or deformations.
50. The answer is D. Project Management life cycle.
The process that project managers follow during the life cycle of a project is known as the Project
Management life cycle. It includes the various phases and activities performed throughout the
project's duration.
The other options mean:
A) Project management: This refers more broadly to the overall discipline of managing projects.
It involves planning, organizing, staffing, directing and controlling project resources to meet
objectives.
B) Manager life cycle: This term does not specifically refer to the life cycle process for managing
a project.
C) Project administration: This refers to administrative functions for a project like record keeping,
document control, managing project changes, etc. It is part of overall project management.
51. A river basin is not a category of constructed facilities. It is a geographic area drained by a
river and its tributaries. River basins are often used as a basis for planning and managing
water resources.
The Answer is D
52. The answer is A. Hydration.
The factors that cause time-dependent volume changes in concrete, potentially leading to
issues like cracking, are:
B) Shrinkage - As concrete dries out over time, it undergoes chemical shrinkage and self-
desiccation shrinkage, which can cause cracks.
C) Creep - The tendency of concrete to continue to deform under a sustained load over a long
period of time. This can cause cracks or deflections.
D) Thermal expansion or contraction - Concrete expands when heated and contracts when
cooled. This can produce stresses in large structures.
The process that does NOT cause time-dependent volume change in concrete is:
A) Hydration - This is the chemical reaction between cement and water that causes the cement
paste to harden and gain strength. It does not inherently cause volume changes.
53. The answer is B. Compressive strength at the age of 28 days.
The compressive strength of hardened concrete at 28 days is the most common parameter used
to assess concrete quality.
54. The answer is D. End connections
The efficiency of a steel tension member depends on:
A) Buckling - Steel members in tension are not susceptible to buckling failure. This does not affect
their efficiency.
B) Elongation - Steel has high ductility and can elongate considerably under tension forces before
failure. This contributes to the efficiency of steel tension members.
C) Yielding - Steel yields plastically before rupture, allowing tension members to develop their
full strength before failure. Yielding improves efficiency.
D) End connections - The efficiency of steel tension members can be seriously reduced by
ineffective end connections. Poor connections introduce stress concentrations and reduce the
usable strength of the member.
55. The base shear computed using the equivalent static lateral force method of analysis is
not dependent on the area of the building. Therefore, the correct answer is D. The area of the
building.