NCEES Structural Engineering PE Exam 2

Question 1

On the NCEES PE Structural exam, which parameter defines the seismic design category (SDC) of a structure?

Accepted Answer

Spectral response accelerations and occupancy category

Answer

The seismic design category is determined by combining the mapped spectral response accelerations (SDS and SD1) with the risk category (occupancy) of the structure.

Question 2

In NCEES PE Structural exam problems, what does the 'response modification factor R' represent in seismic design?

Accepted Answer

The ratio of elastic to inelastic seismic forces, reflecting ductility and overstrength

Answer

The R factor reduces the elastic seismic demand to a design-level force by accounting for the inherent ductility, overstrength, and energy dissipation of the structural system.

Question 3

For the NCEES PE Structural exam, what is the primary purpose of confining reinforcement (hoops/spirals) in a concrete column?

Accepted Answer

To increase ductility and concrete confinement under compression

Answer

Transverse confinement reinforcement increases concrete ductility and compressive strength by restraining lateral expansion of the core concrete under axial load.

Question 4

On the NCEES PE Structural exam, what is a 'diaphragm' in building structural engineering?

Accepted Answer

A horizontal structural element that distributes lateral forces to vertical elements

Answer

A diaphragm (floor or roof system) acts as a horizontal plate that collects and distributes lateral forces to the building's shear walls, frames, or braces.

Question 5

In NCEES PE Structural exam problems, which ACI 318 equation governs the nominal shear strength provided by concrete in a beam?

Accepted Answer

Vc = 2√f'c × bw × d (simplified)

Answer

The simplified ACI 318 equation for concrete shear contribution is Vc = 2√f'c × bw × d (in US customary units), where bw is web width and d is effective depth.

NCEES National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying Practice Practice Test

NCEES National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying Practice Practice Test

NCEES Structural Engineering PE Exam 2