Construction Materials and Building Technology MCQs (Part-1)
What is the primary binding material in concrete?
A Sand
B Cement
C Aggregate
D Water
Cement is the primary binding material in concrete. It acts as a glue that holds the aggregates (sand and gravel) together when mixed with water. The chemical reaction between cement and water, known as hydration, forms a solid matrix that binds the mixture into a durable material.
Which of the following is a property of good quality bricks?
A Low compressive strength
B High water absorption
C Uniform shape and size
D Irregular texture
Good quality bricks should have a uniform shape and size to ensure proper alignment and bonding in masonry construction. They should also have high compressive strength, low water absorption, and a smooth texture for durability and aesthetic appeal.
What is the main purpose of adding admixtures to concrete?
A Increase cost
B Reduce strength
C Improve workability
D Decrease durability
Admixtures are added to concrete to enhance its properties, such as workability, setting time, and durability. They can also improve resistance to harsh weather conditions and reduce water content without compromising strength.
Which type of cement is suitable for marine structures?
A Sulphate Resistant Cement
B Rapid Hardening Cement
C Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC)
D White Cement
Sulphate Resistant Cement is specifically designed to withstand sulphate attacks, which are common in marine environments. It has a low percentage of tricalcium aluminate (C3A), making it resistant to chemical reactions with sulphate ions in seawater.
What is the standard size of a modular brick?
A 190 mm x 90 mm x 90 mm
B 200 mm x 100 mm x 100 mm
C 230 mm x 110 mm x 70 mm
D 250 mm x 120 mm x 75 mm
Modular bricks are standardized to ensure uniformity in construction. The standard size of a modular brick is 190 mm x 90 mm x 90 mm, which includes mortar joints. This size facilitates easy calculation and efficient construction.
Which material is commonly used for waterproofing in construction?
A Gypsum
B Bitumen
C Lime
D Clay
Bitumen is a viscous, waterproof material derived from petroleum. It is widely used in construction for waterproofing roofs, basements, and foundations due to its excellent water-resistant properties and durability.
What is the primary function of reinforcement in concrete?
A Increase weight
B Improve aesthetics
C Provide tensile strength
D Reduce cost
Concrete is strong in compression but weak in tension. Reinforcement, usually in the form of steel bars, is added to provide tensile strength and prevent cracking under load, ensuring the structural integrity of the concrete.
Which of the following is a green building material?
A Asbestos
B Fly ash
C PVC
D Lead
Fly ash is a byproduct of coal combustion and is considered a green building material because it reduces the need for cement in concrete, thereby lowering carbon emissions. It also enhances the durability and workability of concrete.
What is the main component of mortar?
A Cement, sand, and water
B Cement, aggregate, and water
C Lime, sand, and water
D Lime, aggregate, and water
Mortar is a mixture of cement, sand, and water used to bind building blocks like bricks and stones. It provides strength and stability to masonry structures by filling gaps and bonding the materials together.
Which test is used to determine the workability of concrete?
A Compression test
B Slump test
C Tensile test
D Flexural test
The slump test measures the consistency and workability of fresh concrete. It involves filling a cone-shaped mold with concrete, removing the mold, and measuring the slump (settlement) of the concrete. A higher slump indicates greater workability.
What is the primary use of timber in construction?
A Reinforcement
B Waterproofing
C Structural framing
D Insulation
Timber is widely used in construction for structural framing, including beams, columns, and roof trusses. It is valued for its strength, durability, and ease of handling, making it a versatile material in building construction.
Which of the following is a non-conventional construction material?
A Steel
B Bamboo
C Cement
D Bricks
Bamboo is a non-conventional construction material that is gaining popularity due to its sustainability, strength, and flexibility. It is used in various applications, including scaffolding, flooring, and even as a reinforcement material in concrete.
What is the purpose of formwork in construction?
A To reinforce concrete
B To waterproof concrete
C To cure concrete
D To shape and support concrete
Formwork is a temporary mold used to shape and support fresh concrete until it hardens and gains sufficient strength. It is essential for creating structural elements like beams, columns, and slabs with precise dimensions.
Which of the following is a thermal insulation material?
A Fiberglass
B Glass
C Steel
D Concrete
Fiberglass is a common thermal insulation material used in construction. It consists of fine glass fibers that trap air, reducing heat transfer and improving energy efficiency in buildings.
What is the main advantage of prefabricated structures?
A Higher cost
B Longer construction time
C Better quality control
D Increased waste
Prefabricated structures are manufactured in a controlled factory environment, ensuring better quality control and consistency. They also reduce construction time, minimize waste, and improve overall efficiency in the building process.