Engineering Questions with Answers - Multiple Choice Questions
Basic Civil Engineering MCQ’s – Properties of Sand
1 - Question
The fineness modulus of sand lies in the range:
a) 1-2
b) 0.5-1
c) 2-3
d) 2.5-3.5
View Answer
Answer: c
Explanation: Fineness modulus is an index number which represents average size of sand particles. It is calculated after conducting sieve analysis
2 - Question
An ideal sand should comprise of which of the following grain types?
a) Cubical, fine
b) Angular, coarse
c) Round, coarse
d) Irregular, fine
View Answer
Answer: b
Explanation: For sand to be used in every type of construction, the grains must suit all requirements. Angular, coarse grained sand is the one suitable for all work.
3 - Question
Sand in mortar helps in adjusting the strength requirements:
a) True
b) False
View Answer
Answer: a
Explanation: The grade and amount of sane used in making mortar help in adjusting the strength parameter. It also helps in increasing resistance against crushing.
4 - Question
A sand is not said to be ideal if:
a) Chemically inert
b) Free from organic salts
c) Is soft
d) Contains silicon dioxide
View Answer
Answer: c
Explanation: An ideal sand should be hard and not soft. It will be difficult to work with if it is soft.
5 - Question
Sands should pass through:
a) BIS 480 sieve
b) BIS 8 sieve
c) BIS 5 sieve
d) BIS 6 sieve
View Answer
Answer: a
Explanation: The particle size of sand is between 4.75mm and 75 microns. BIS 480 sieve represents 4.75mm sieve opening.
6 - Question
Bulking of sand increase the strength of the mortar.
a) True
b) False
View Answer
Answer: b
Explanation: Bulking increases volume of mortar and not the strength. In fact, it decreases the strength, leading to future cracks in the structure.
7 - Question
The solution used to test impurities in the sand in field is:
a) Sodium sulphate
b) Sodium hydroxide
c) Sodium nitrate
d) Sodium chloride
View Answer
Answer: b
Explanation: A small amount of sand is added to a solution of sodium hydroxide and stirred. If colour changes to brown, presence of impurity is detected.
8 - Question
What is the maximum percentage of silt allowed in sand to be used in concrete?
a) 5%
b) 10%
c) 8%
d) 2%
View Answer
Answer: c
Explanation: If more silt content is present, it will lead to the improper measurement of volume or weight. It should be washed off to bring it to the allowable limit.
9 - Question
Which one of the below cannot to be used as a substitute of sand?
a) Surkhi
b) Quarry dust
c) Glass
d) M-sand
View Answer
Answer: b
Explanation: Surkhi is pieces of burned clay, M-sand is manufactured sand, glass can be powdered and these form excellent substitutes for sand. Quarry dust has flaky grains and is not recommended to use in concrete or masonry works, though it can be used for low strength works.
10 - Question
The density of wet sand is:
a) 1922 kg/m3
b) 1682 kg/m3
c) 1281 kg/m3
d) 1522 kg/m3
View Answer
Answer: a
Explanation: 1682 kg/m3 is density of rammed sand, 1281 kg/m3 is density of dry sand and 1522 kg/m3 is of silica sand.