Concrete is:
Try it first: pick an option, then read the explanation.
Correct answer: B. Good in compression, weak in tension
Concrete in Compression and Tension
Concrete is strong in compression but weak in tension. Its tensile strength is only about 10% of its compressive strength (roughly 1–5 N/mm² vs 20–60 N/mm² in compression). This fundamental weakness is why steel reinforcement — which is excellent in tension — is embedded in reinforced concrete: the steel takes the tension, the concrete takes the compression.
Good in compression, weak in tension — option B.
Key takeaway
Concrete: compression ✔ tension ✖. That’s the whole reason for reinforcing it with steel.