Construction Materials and Building Technology MCQs (Part-6)
Which material is commonly used as a binder in concrete?
A Sand
B Lime
C Cement
D Clay
Cement is the main binding material in concrete. It reacts with water to form a hard mass, binding the aggregates together. This chemical reaction is known as hydration, which gives concrete its strength.
What is the main purpose of reinforcement in concrete?
A To provide tensile strength
B To increase weight
C To improve aesthetics
D To reduce cost
Concrete is strong under compression but weak under tension. Reinforcement, typically in the form of steel bars, is added to provide tensile strength, preventing cracks and structural failure under tension.
What is the standard size of a brick?
A 210 mm x 105 mm x 65 mm
B 190 mm x 90 mm x 90 mm
C 200 mm x 100 mm x 50 mm
D 250 mm x 100 mm x 75 mm
The standard size of a modular brick is 190 mm x 90 mm x 90 mm. This size is used for easy handling, efficient use of mortar, and uniformity in construction, ensuring consistency in wall dimensions.
Which of the following is a type of cement suitable for use in marine environments?
A White Cement
B Ordinary Portland Cement
C Rapid Hardening Cement
D Sulphate Resistant Cement
Sulphate Resistant Cement is designed to resist the chemical attack of sulphates, which are commonly found in marine environments. This cement type has low tricalcium aluminate content, making it more durable in such conditions.
What is the main purpose of formwork in construction?
A To waterproof concrete
B To reinforce concrete
C To shape and support concrete
D To insulate concrete
Formwork is a temporary mold used to shape concrete until it sets. It provides support during the curing process and ensures that the concrete forms the desired structural shape, such as beams, columns, and slabs.
Which of the following materials is most commonly used for insulation in buildings?
A Concrete
B Fiberglass
C PVC
D Steel
Fiberglass is widely used for thermal and acoustic insulation in buildings. It consists of fine fibers that trap air, reducing heat transfer and noise. It is an efficient and cost effective material for insulating walls, attics, and ceilings.
What is the primary function of admixtures in concrete?
A To enhance specific properties
B To reduce cost
C To increase strength
D To improve aesthetics
Admixtures are used to modify the properties of concrete, such as improving workability, controlling setting time, increasing durability, or reducing water content without affecting strength. They are essential for specialized concrete applications.
Which material is commonly used for waterproofing in construction?
A Lime
B Gypsum
C Bitumen
D Clay
Bitumen is a waterproof material that is widely used in construction, especially for roofing and foundation waterproofing. It is durable, flexible, and resistant to water penetration, making it ideal for preventing leaks in buildings.
What is the primary use of timber in construction?
A Insulation
B Structural framing
C Waterproofing
D Fireproofing
Timber is used for structural framing in buildings, such as beams, columns, and floor joists. It is valued for its strength, ease of handling, and renewable nature, making it a sustainable choice for various construction projects.
Which of the following is a lightweight aggregate used in concrete?
A Pumice
B Clay
C Sand
D Gravel
Pumice is a lightweight volcanic rock used as an aggregate in concrete. It reduces the weight of the structure while still providing good strength and insulation properties, making it ideal for lightweight concrete applications.
What is the main function of curing in concrete work?
A To control temperature
B To improve aesthetics
C To increase shrinkage
D To maintain moisture for hydration
Curing ensures that concrete retains moisture, which is essential for the hydration of cement. Proper curing helps the concrete achieve its maximum strength and durability by allowing the chemical reactions necessary for hardening to occur.
Which material is commonly used for fireproofing in construction?
A Asbestos
B Glass wool
C Concrete
D Steel
Glass wool is used as a fireproofing material in construction. It is made from fine fibers of glass and is highly resistant to heat, making it ideal for insulating and protecting buildings from fire hazards.
What is the purpose of reinforcement detailing in construction?
A To increase cost
B To reduce material strength
C To ensure proper placement of steel bars
D To delay construction
Reinforcement detailing involves specifying the correct size, spacing, and placement of steel bars within concrete structures. Proper detailing ensures the structure’s strength and stability, preventing cracks and failures under load.
Which of the following is a green building material?
A Fly ash
B Lead
C PVC
D Asbestos
Fly ash is a byproduct of coal combustion and is considered a sustainable construction material. It reduces the need for cement in concrete, thereby lowering carbon emissions and enhancing the durability of the concrete.
Which of the following is a standard test for determining the strength of cement?
A Slump test
B Tensile test
C Rebound hammer test
D Compression test
The compression test is used to determine the strength of cement by applying a compressive force until the material fails. It provides essential data on how cement will behave under load in real world applications, ensuring structural safety.