Engineering Materials·MCQ explained

Pick up the correct statement from the following.

Try it first: pick an option, then read the explanation.

Correct answer: D. All options are correct

Detailed Explanation: Three Correct Statements on Workability

Why D (All correct) is correct:
(A) Higher workability = unexpected increase in moisture: On site, if measured slump is suddenly higher than the target, the most likely cause is extra water in the mix (wet aggregates, extra water added by operator). This is a quality control warning sign.
(B) Higher workability = deficiency of sand: Sand (fine aggregate) provides surface area that absorbs free water. Less sand = less surface area = more free water = more fluid mix = higher workability. A low sand content (sand deficiency) produces a more fluid, potentially prone-to-segregation mix.
(C) Dry mix = zero slump: An earth-moist or very dry mix has insufficient free water for the concrete to deform under its own weight. After removing the mould, the shape holds = zero slump.

Site Interpretation of Slump Changes

ObservationLikely Cause
Slump higher than targetExtra water / wet aggregates / sand deficiency
Slump lower than targetLess water / dry aggregates / extra sand
Zero slumpVery dry mix (earth-moist condition)
Collapse slumpExcessive water / very high w/c
  • All three statements describe real, observable phenomena in site concrete quality control.
  • Monitoring slump provides early warning of batching errors or material changes.