LARE LARE Grading and Earthwork 4

Question 1

A designer specifies a 4:1 (H:V) slope for a graded embankment in a residential project. What percentage grade does this represent?

Accepted Answer

25%

Answer

Grade % = (vertical rise ÷ horizontal run) × 100 = (1 ÷ 4) × 100 = 25%.

Question 2

Which of the following correctly describes the prismatoid formula for earthwork volume calculation, and when is it preferred over the average end area method?

Accepted Answer

It uses the middle cross-section area and is more accurate when end areas differ significantly

Answer

The prismatoid formula incorporates the middle cross-section area (V = L/6 × (A1 + 4Am + A2)) and is more accurate than average end area when end areas differ significantly.

Question 3

A landscape architect needs to establish finish floor elevation (FFE) for a building pad. The 100-year flood elevation is 215.5 feet. Per best practice, the FFE should be set at a minimum of:

Accepted Answer

216.5 ft (1 foot above base flood elevation)

Answer

FEMA and most local floodplain regulations require the FFE to be set at a minimum of 1 foot above the base flood elevation (BFE) for freeboard.

Question 4

During construction observation, you notice that fill is being placed in lifts that are 18 inches thick before compaction. The specification requires 8-inch maximum compacted lifts for structural fill. The correct course of action is:

Accepted Answer

Stop work and require the contractor to comply with the lift thickness specification

Answer

Lift thickness directly affects the ability of compaction equipment to achieve uniform density throughout the layer; exceeding the specified lift thickness requires stopping and correcting the work.

Question 5

Two contour lines on a grading plan are spaced very close together. This indicates:

Accepted Answer

A steep slope or abrupt grade change

Answer

Closely spaced contour lines indicate a steep slope because the same vertical interval is covered over a short horizontal distance.

LARE Test Practice Test

LARE Test Practice Test

LARE LARE Grading and Earthwork 4