Bachelor of Civil Engineering Flashcards

Which load combination per ASCE 7 governs the design of most structural members for strength?

Answer: 1.2D + 1.6L

The LRFD combination 1.2D + 1.6L typically controls the design of floor members because live load is the dominant variable.

In geotechnical engineering, the angle of internal friction (φ) is highest for:

Answer: Dense gravel

Dense gravel has high interlocking and friction between particles, giving it the highest angle of internal friction among these options.

What is the primary purpose of a weir in open channel flow measurement?

Answer: To measure discharge by correlating head over the weir

A weir creates a controlled overflow section where the water head above the crest is measured and related to discharge via empirical formulas.

In transportation engineering, Level of Service (LOS) A on a roadway describes:

Answer: Free-flow conditions with little interaction between vehicles

LOS A represents free-flow conditions where drivers operate with complete freedom to select desired speeds with minimal interaction.

Which failure mode of a steel column is characterized by twisting about its longitudinal axis?

Answer: Torsional buckling

Torsional buckling involves rotation of the cross-section about the longitudinal axis and governs for open sections with low torsional stiffness.

In environmental engineering, BOD (Biochemical Oxygen Demand) measures:

Answer: Oxygen consumed by microorganisms decomposing organic matter

BOD quantifies the amount of dissolved oxygen consumed by biological processes breaking down organic matter in water over a specified period.

The 'Proctor compaction test' is used in geotechnical engineering to determine:

Answer: The optimal moisture content for maximum dry density

The Proctor test establishes the compaction curve, identifying the optimum water content at which soil achieves its maximum dry unit weight.