Certainly!

Here's the first set of 40 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) covering the topics you've
specified in Unit 6: Basic Civil Engineering. Each question includes four options and the correct
answer.

1. According to the National Building Code (NBC), residential buildings fall under which
group?
A. Group A
B. Group B
C. Group C
D. Group D
Answer: A

2. Which of the following is NOT a basic component of a building?

A. Foundation
B. Roof
C. Elevator
D. Plinth
Answer: C

3. What is a fundamental requirement of a building?

A. High cost
B. Aesthetic appeal
C. Stability
D. Complexity
Answer: C

4. Which factor is NOT considered in site selection for a building?

A. Soil condition
B. Accessibility
C. Color of soil
D. Availability of services
Answer: C

5. The primary purpose of a foundation is to:

A. Provide aesthetic appeal
B. Support the building
C. Enhance ventilation
D. Increase building height
Answer: B

6. Which of the following is a type of shallow foundation?

A. Pile foundation
B. Raft foundation
C. Well foundation
D. Caisson foundation
Answer: B

7. Bearing capacity of soil refers to:

A. Soil color
B. Moisture content
C. Ability to support structural loads
D. Thermal resistance
Answer: C

8. Which is NOT a physical property of construction materials?

A. Density
B. Porosity
C. Strength
D. Color
Answer: C

9. Hardness is an example of a:
A. Physical property
B. Chemical property
C. Mechanical property
D. Thermal property
Answer: C

10. Durability of a material refers to its:

A. Weight
B. Resistance to wear and decay over time
C. Cost
D. Availability
Answer: B

11. Granite is classified as a:

A. Brick
B. Stone
C. Timber
D. Steel
Answer: B

12. The main binding material in mortar is:

A. Sand
B. Cement
C. Gravel
D. Water
Answer: B

13. The major ingredient in concrete providing strength is:

A. Water
B. Fine aggregate
C. Cement
D. Plasticizer
Answer: C

14. Timber is classified based on:

A. Height of tree
B. Texture
C. Source and type of tree
D. Color
Answer: C
15. Steel is primarily used in buildings for:
A. Flooring
B. Aesthetic purposes
C. Reinforcement
D. Painting
Answer: C

16. Which of the following is NOT a non-ferrous metal used in construction?

A. Copper
B. Aluminium
C. Lead
D. Iron
Answer: D

17. Paint in construction is used to:

A. Enhance aesthetics
B. Prevent corrosion
C. Increase weight
D. Bond surfaces
Answer: B

18. PVC is an example of:

A. Glass
B. Paint
C. Plastic
D. Adhesive
Answer: C

19. Float glass is commonly used in:

A. Foundations
B. Roofs
C. Windows
D. Paint
Answer: C

20. Adhesives in construction are used to:

A. Enhance aesthetics
B. Bond surfaces together
C. Increase weight
D. Polish surfaces
Answer: B

21. Tiles are mostly used for:

A. Strengthening beams
B. Roofing and flooring
C. Foundations
D. Reinforcement
Answer: B

22. Composite materials are:

A. Naturally occurring
B. Made by mixing two or more materials
C. Synthetic only
D. Weak in strength
Answer: B

23. The first step in conventional water treatment is:

A. Sedimentation
B. Filtration
C. Disinfection
D. Screening
Answer: D

24. Plain sedimentation removes:

A. Bacteria
B. Suspended solids
C. Dissolved salts
D. Gases
Answer: B

25. Coagulation in water treatment helps to:

A. Kill bacteria
B. Remove dissolved salts
C. Remove fine suspended particles
D. Add minerals
Answer: C

26. A commonly used coagulant in water treatment is:

A. Sodium chloride
B. Alum
C. Calcium carbonate
D. Copper sulfate
Answer: B

27. Filtration in water treatment removes:

A. Odor
B. Color
C. Fine particles
D. Gases
Answer: C

28. Disinfection ensures removal of:

A. Suspended particles
B. Odor
C. Harmful microorganisms
D. Color
Answer: C

29. Chlorine is commonly used for:

A. Coagulation
B. Disinfection
C. Filtration
D. Aeration
Answer: B

30. The durability of concrete is mainly affected by:

A. Porosity
B. Color
C. Cost
D. Curing time
Answer: A

31. A good brick should have:

A. High porosity
B. Irregular shape
C. Hard and sound characteristics
D. Light weight
Answer: C

32. Lime is mainly used in construction for:

A. Flooring
B. Decorative painting
C. Mortar and plaster
D. Reinforcement
Answer: C

33. The strength of mortar is mainly dependent on:

A. Sand only
B. Water only
C. Cement-sand ratio
D. Time
Answer: C

34. The main component of cement is:

A. Silica
B. Lime
C. Iron oxide
D. Magnesium
Answer: B

35. Which is NOT a property of aggregate?

A. Fineness
B. Shape
C. Color
D. Strength
Answer: C

36. Which of these materials is used for thermal insulation?

A. Sand
B. Cement
C. Glass wool
D. Steel
Answer: C
37. The water used in concrete should be:
A. Free from impurities
B. Acidic
C. Saline
D. Alkaline
Answer: A

38. The term “bearing capacity” refers to:

A. The strength of foundation material
B. Load a soil can carry without failure
C. Load carried by the building
D. Weight of the building material
Answer: B

39. The slump test is conducted to check:

A. Compressive strength of concrete
B. Workability of concrete
C. Setting time of cement
D. Fineness of cement
Answer: B

40. The coagulant commonly used in water treatment plants is:

A. Lime
B. Alum
C. Chlorine
D. Fluoride
Answer: B

41. Which stone is preferred for flooring purposes?

A. Basalt
B. Granite
C. Marble
D. Sandstone
Answer: C

42. Which of the following is an artificial construction material?

A. Cement
B. Stone
C. Timber
D. Sand
Answer: A

43. What is the IS code for ordinary Portland cement?

A. IS 383
B. IS 456
C. IS 269
D. IS 516
Answer: C

44. The compressive strength of first-class bricks should be at least:

A. 3.5 N/mm²
B. 5.0 N/mm²
C. 7.0 N/mm²
D. 10.0 N/mm²
Answer: C

45. The fineness modulus of fine aggregate lies between:

A. 1.5 to 2.5
B. 2.5 to 3.5
C. 3.5 to 4.5
D. 4.5 to 5.5
Answer: A

46. A well-seasoned timber has a moisture content of:

A. 5%
B. 10–12%
C. 25%
D. 40%
Answer: B

47. The main constituent responsible for setting of cement is:

A. Lime
B. Silica
C. Alumina
D. Gypsum
Answer: A

48. The slump test is used to measure:

A. Durability of concrete
B. Workability of concrete
C. Strength of concrete
D. Water content
Answer: B

49. Bitumen is primarily used in:

A. Concrete mix
B. Brick making
C. Road construction
D. Timber preservation
Answer: C

50. Lead in paint is used for:

A. Durability
B. Gloss
C. Drying
D. Color
Answer: C

51. The most commonly used form of steel in RCC work is:
A. Mild steel bars
B. Cast iron rods
C. Stainless steel
D. TMT bars
Answer: D

52. Which aggregate is preferred for RCC work?

A. Rounded
B. Flaky
C. Angular
D. Elongated
Answer: C

53. The primary purpose of compaction of concrete is to:

A. Reduce shrinkage
B. Remove excess cement
C. Remove air voids
D. Increase volume
Answer: C

54. A bond that gives maximum strength to brick masonry is:

A. Flemish bond
B. English bond
C. Stretcher bond
D. Header bond
Answer: B

55. The curing period for concrete is generally:

A. 3 days
B. 7 days
C. 14 days
D. 28 days
Answer: D

56. IS code for plain and reinforced concrete is:

A. IS 456
B. IS 383
C. IS 516
D. IS 800
Answer: A

57. Which of the following is a durable and chemically inert material?

A. Glass
B. Lime
C. Sandstone
D. Marble
Answer: A

58. Non-ferrous metals are generally:

A. Corrosive
B. Magnetic
C. Light and corrosion-resistant
D. Brittle
Answer: C

59. Adhesive strength is defined as:

A. Resistance to impact
B. Resistance to slipping
C. Bonding between dissimilar materials
D. Surface finish
Answer: C

60. Which tile is commonly used for roofing?

A. Ceramic tile
B. Cement tile
C. Mangalore tile
D. Glazed tile
Answer: C

61. Which is NOT a desirable property of good concrete?

A. Workability
B. Durability
C. Segregation
D. Strength
Answer: C

62. In a framed structure, the load is transferred to the:

A. Walls
B. Slabs
C. Columns
D. Roof
Answer: C

63. Seasoning of timber improves its:

A. Weight
B. Hardness
C. Appearance
D. Strength and durability
Answer: D

64. Disinfection of water is done to:

A. Improve color
B. Remove bacteria
C. Reduce turbidity
D. Lower hardness
Answer: B

65. The alum dose required for water treatment depends on:
A. Temperature of water
B. Color of water
C. pH and turbidity
D. Amount of iron
Answer: C

66. Which process follows sedimentation in water treatment?

A. Coagulation
B. Filtration
C. Screening
D. Flocculation
Answer: B

67. The glass used in greenhouses is generally:

A. Transparent
B. Translucent
C. Tinted
D. Opaque
Answer: A

68. A good building site should be:

A. Low-lying
B. On a slope
C. Well-drained
D. Near water-logged area
Answer: C

69. Which is the first operation in water treatment?

A. Sedimentation
B. Disinfection
C. Screening
D. Filtration
Answer: C

70. Which brick bond has all bricks placed as stretchers?

A. English
B. Flemish
C. Stretcher
D. Header
Answer: C

71. Which property of paint protects metal surfaces from corrosion?

A. Gloss
B. Opacity
C. Adhesiveness
D. Film-forming ability
Answer: D

72. Which of the following is NOT a use of cement?

A. Mortar
B. Concrete
C. Timber work
D. Plaster
Answer: C

73. Load-bearing walls primarily carry:

A. Wind load
B. Roof load
C. Dead and live load
D. Temperature load
Answer: C

74. Site selection should avoid areas with:

A. Flat terrain
B. Water table below 2m
C. Good drainage
D. Earthquake faults
Answer: D

75. Which is the most common disinfectant used in India?

A. Ozone
B. UV
C. Potassium permanganate
D. Chlorine
Answer: D

76. The shape preferred for aggregates in concrete is:

A. Angular
B. Round
C. Irregular
D. Elongated
Answer: A

77. Curing of concrete prevents:

A. Setting
B. Shrinkage cracks
C. Bleeding
D. Expansion
Answer: B
78. Which test determines the workability of fresh concrete?
A. Compression test
B. Slump test
C. Impact test
D. Flexural test
Answer: B

79. Which stone is NOT suitable for construction?

A. Granite
B. Basalt
C. Slate
D. Soapstone
Answer: D

80. Which is NOT a mechanical property of construction material?

A. Toughness
B. Porosity
C. Strength
D. Hardness
Answer: B

81. The principal ingredient of cement is:

A. Silica
B. Gypsum
C. Lime
D. Alumina
Answer: C

82. The material used to bond bricks in masonry is:

A. Clay
B. Mortar
C. Cement paste
D. Bitumen
Answer: B

83. The durability of concrete depends on:

A. Water-cement ratio
B. Quantity of sand
C. Color of cement
D. Size of aggregate
Answer: A

84. A good foundation should:

A. Be placed on soft soil
B. Resist loads without settlement
C. Be lightweight
D. Be made only with brick
Answer: B
85. Paints are generally applied in:
A. One coat
B. Two coats
C. Three coats
D. Four coats
Answer: C

86. Which of the following materials is ductile?

A. Brick
B. Timber
C. Steel
D. Stone
Answer: C

87. In concrete, coarse aggregate functions to:

A. Bind the mix
B. Fill volume and increase strength
C. Reduce weight
D. React chemically
Answer: B

88. A first-class brick should not absorb water more than:

A. 10%
B. 15%
C. 20%
D. 25%
Answer: B

89. Which material is added in cement to control the setting time?

A. Silica
B. Alumina
C. Lime
D. Gypsum
Answer: D

90. What does the bearing capacity of soil indicate?

A. Density of soil
B. Load it can safely carry
C. Permeability
D. Settlement speed
Answer: B

91. Which metal is non-ferrous?

A. Cast iron
B. Mild steel
C. Aluminium
D. TMT bars
Answer: C

92. The strength of concrete increases with:

A. More water
B. More sand
C. Proper curing
D. Use of lime
Answer: C

93. Which of the following is NOT used in reinforced concrete?

A. Cement
B. Sand
C. Steel bars
D. Bitumen
Answer: D

94. Filtration in water treatment removes:

A. Dissolved salts
B. Suspended solids
C. Bacteria
D. Gases
Answer: B

95. Which of the following is NOT a property of good bricks?

A. Sound when struck
B. Sharp edges
C. Low water absorption
D. High porosity
Answer: D

96. In a building, plinth is the part:

A. Below footing
B. Between DPC and superstructure
C. Roof slab
D. Inside floor
Answer: B

97. Which of the following is used in glass production?

A. Lime
B. Sand
C. Gypsum
D. Zinc
Answer: B

98. For a residential building, the ideal site should be:

A. Far from roads
B. On marshy land
C. Close to amenities
D. On a steep slope
Answer: C

99. Which of the following is used in adhesive formulation?

A. Resin
B. Bitumen
C. Gypsum
D. Asbestos
Answer: A

100. Workability of concrete can be improved by:

A. Adding more coarse aggregates
B. Reducing water
C. Adding plasticizers
D. Using smaller cement particles
Answer: C

101. Non-ferrous metals do not contain:

A. Iron
B. Zinc
C. Copper
D. Aluminium
Answer: A

102. Which of the following is used to improve durability of concrete?

A. Sugar
B. Admixtures
C. Clay
D. Gravel only
Answer: B

103. Screening removes:

A. Heavy metals
B. Floating debris
C. Sand
D. Bacteria
Answer: B

104. Which stone is commonly used in damp areas due to its resistance to moisture?
A. Marble
B. Laterite
C. Slate
D. Soapstone
Answer: C

105. A composite material is made from:

A. A single substance
B. Pure metals
C. Combination of two or more materials
D. Sand only
Answer: C

106. The DPC in buildings stands for:

A. Dampness Prevention Course
B. Direct Plinth Cement
C. Damaged Portion Control
D. Damp Proof Course
Answer: D

107. What is the function of a lintel in buildings?

A. Base of columns
B. Foundation of floors
C. Support above openings
D. Roof slab
Answer: C

108. A good construction material should be:

A. Soft and absorbent
B. Durable and strong
C. Shiny and smooth
D. Fragile
Answer: B

109. Which of the following is NOT used in water treatment?

A. Alum
B. Chlorine
C. Cement
D. Sand filter
Answer: C

110. Hardness of water is removed using:

A. Disinfection
B. Screening
C. Softening
D. Filtration
Answer: C

111. Which brick is preferred for visible wall surface?

A. Second-class
B. First-class
C. Over-burnt
D. Unburnt
Answer: B

112. Cement is stored in dry conditions to avoid:

A. Bleaching
B. Setting
C. Hardening in bag
D. Cracking
Answer: C

113. Glass is used in buildings for:

A. Heat resistance
B. Aesthetic appeal and lighting
C. Bearing load
D. Moisture resistance
Answer: B

114. The process of water passing through filter media is called:

A. Disinfection
B. Coagulation
C. Filtration
D. Screening
Answer: C

115. What is the purpose of adding admixtures in concrete?

A. Reduce cost
B. Reduce cement quantity
C. Improve properties
D. Reduce aggregate
Answer: C

116. Which of the following affects bearing capacity of soil?

A. Color
B. Texture
C. Moisture content
D. Temperature
Answer: C

117. The process that separates heavy particles from water is:
A. Screening
B. Coagulation
C. Sedimentation
D. Filtration
Answer: C

118. Good timber gives a sound when struck:

A. Hollow
B. Cracking
C. Metallic
D. Ringing
Answer: D

119. Paint increases:

A. Thermal conductivity
B. Cost only
C. Aesthetic and life
D. Surface roughness
Answer: C

120. Which plastic is commonly used in plumbing and electrical conduit?

A. PVC
B. Nylon
C. Acrylic
D. Polycarbonate
Answer: A

121. The main function of a building foundation is to:

A. Decorate the house
B. Transfer loads to soil
C. Support only walls
D. Allow air circulation
Answer: B

122. Timber used in construction should be:

A. Seasoned
B. Freshly cut
C. Green wood
D. Moist
Answer: A

123. The unit weight of cement is approximately:

A. 1200 kg/m³
B. 1440 kg/m³
C. 1600 kg/m³
D. 1000 kg/m³
Answer: B

124. Which of the following is NOT a classification of residential buildings?

A. Detached
B. Semi-detached
C. Commercial
D. Apartment
Answer: C

125. The function of steel reinforcement in concrete is to resist:

A. Compression only
B. Tension only
C. Torsion only
D. All loads
Answer: B
126. Which is a property of a good aggregate?
A. Porous
B. Weak
C. Angular
D. Absorbent
Answer: C

127. Bitumen is primarily used for:

A. Roofing
B. Flooring
C. Road surfacing
D. Foundation
Answer: C

128. Sedimentation aided with coagulation removes:

A. Gases
B. Colloidal particles
C. Gravel
D. Heavy metals
Answer: B

129. A tile is classified as a:

A. Natural material
B. Composite material
C. Ceramic product
D. Plastic
Answer: C

130. The compressive strength of first-class bricks is about:

A. 3.5 N/mm²
B. 5.0 N/mm²
C. 10.5 N/mm²
D. 12.0 N/mm²
Answer: C

131. Which material is not biodegradable?

A. Timber
B. Stone
C. Plastic
D. Paint
Answer: C

132. The minimum curing period of concrete is:

A. 3 days
B. 5 days
C. 7 days
D. 14 days
Answer: C
133. The best timber for construction is:
A. Bamboo
B. Teak
C. Palm
D. Softwood
Answer: B

134. Which is a physical property of construction material?

A. Tensile strength
B. Thermal conductivity
C. Toughness
D. Modulus of elasticity
Answer: B

135. Sedimentation is done in:

A. Storage tanks
B. Grit chambers
C. Sedimentation basins
D. Filtration units
Answer: C

136. The life of a well-constructed building depends on:

A. Wall thickness
B. Cost of construction
C. Foundation and materials
D. Paint used
Answer: C

137. Aggregates occupy about ______% of concrete volume:

A. 30%
B. 50%
C. 60–75%
D. 80–90%
Answer: C

138. The color of cement is due to the presence of:

A. Iron oxide
B. Calcium
C. Silica
D. Magnesium
Answer: A

139. Plain sedimentation is carried out for about:

A. 30 minutes
B. 6 hours
C. 24 hours
D. 48 hours
Answer: C

140. Bricks are generally classified based on:

A. Shape
B. Strength and quality
C. Size
D. Soil used
Answer: B

141. The most common non-ferrous metals used in building are:

A. Steel and iron
B. Copper and aluminium
C. Brass and lead
D. Zinc and tin
Answer: B

142. Laying of foundation should be done on:

A. Loose soil
B. Soft clay
C. Hard strata
D. Topsoil
Answer: C

143. In NBC, buildings are classified according to:

A. Color and shape
B. Cost
C. Occupancy and use
D. Soil type
Answer: C

144. Coarse aggregate size used in RCC work is generally:

A. 10 mm
B. 12 mm
C. 20 mm
D. 5 mm
Answer: C

145. Timber is seasoned to:

A. Increase moisture
B. Increase weight
C. Reduce decay
D. Improve color
Answer: C

146. Concrete gains strength in:

A. Few hours
B. 1 day
C. 7–28 days
D. 90 days
Answer: C

147. Which of the following is a mechanical property?

A. Thermal resistance
B. Toughness
C. Porosity
D. Surface finish
Answer: B

148. Which test is done for checking cement quality?

A. Soundness test
B. Slump test
C. Workability test
D. Water test
Answer: A

149. The aggregate used in concrete should be:

A. Porous and rounded
B. Clean, hard, and graded
C. Soft and flaky
D. Large and irregular
Answer: B

150. The function of water in concrete mix is to:

A. Add weight
B. Initiate hydration
C. Act as filler
D. Maintain temperature
Answer: B

151. Which glass type is used for safety purposes?

A. Float glass
B. Tinted glass
C. Toughened glass
D. Sheet glass
Answer: C

152. The property of a material to withstand sudden shock is:

A. Hardness
B. Elasticity
C. Toughness
D. Durability
Answer: C

153. Adhesives are used for:

A. Polishing
B. Joining surfaces
C. Coloring
D. Cutting materials
Answer: B

154. The bearing capacity of black cotton soil is:

A. Very high
B. High
C. Medium
D. Low
Answer: D

155. A building component used for access to upper floors:

A. Door
B. Staircase
C. Roof
D. Beam
Answer: B

156. Which is a disadvantage of plastic in construction?

A. Lightweight
B. Low durability
C. Water-resistant
D. Cheap
Answer: B

157. In filtration, water passes through:

A. Aluminum
B. Sand bed
C. Iron rods
D. Bitumen sheet
Answer: B

158. A good construction site should have:

A. Poor drainage
B. Access to services
C. Sloppy terrain
D. Dense vegetation
Answer: B

159. Cement becomes unusable after:

A. 3 months
B. 6 months
C. 1 year
D. 2 years
Answer: B

160. Cracks in building walls may be caused by:

A. Good workmanship
B. Stable foundation
C. Uneven settlement
D. Uniform loading
Answer: C

161. The most commonly used construction material is:

A. Timber
B. Concrete
C. Steel
D. Stone
Answer: B

162. The component of a building that carries the roof load is:
A. Floor
B. Column
C. Beam
D. Foundation
Answer: C

163. Paints are applied to surfaces to:

A. Increase weight
B. Decrease strength
C. Improve aesthetics and protect surface
D. Increase friction
Answer: C

164. In a water treatment plant, filtration is used to remove:

A. Odour
B. Color
C. Suspended solids
D. Microorganisms only
Answer: C

165. A good building site should NOT have:

A. Proper slope
B. Waterlogging
C. Good soil
D. Drainage
Answer: B

166. Concrete is a mixture of:

A. Sand, cement, and paint
B. Cement, steel, wood
C. Cement, sand, aggregates, and water
D. Steel, water, paint
Answer: C

167. The compressive strength of concrete is tested using:

A. Tensile machine
B. Impact test
C. UTM
D. Compression testing machine
Answer: D

168. Which of the following is a durable material?

A. Unseasoned timber
B. Burnt bricks
C. Mud
D. Bamboo
Answer: B

169. The ratio of water to cement in concrete affects:

A. Colour
B. Strength and workability
C. Curing time only
D. Cement quality
Answer: B

170. Glass is a:
A. Metal
B. Composite
C. Non-crystalline material
D. Organic polymer
Answer: C

171. Bearing capacity of soil is expressed in:

A. kg
B. kN
C. kN/m²
D. N/mm
Answer: C

172. Durability of construction material is defined as its ability to:

A. Carry heavy loads
B. Retain appearance
C. Withstand weathering and usage
D. Withstand vibrations
Answer: C

173. Stones used in construction should be free from:

A. Luster
B. Cavities
C. Cracks and flaws
D. Hardness
Answer: C
174. A material that can undergo large deformation before breaking is:
A. Brittle
B. Elastic
C. Ductile
D. Plastic
Answer: C

175. Adhesives are commonly made from:

A. Wood
B. Petroleum by-products
C. Cement
D. Sand
Answer: B

176. Disinfection in water treatment kills:

A. Sand particles
B. Bacteria and viruses
C. Hardness
D. Suspended solids
Answer: B

177. The dead load of a building includes:

A. Live load
B. Earthquake load
C. Self-weight of structure
D. Wind load
Answer: C

178. Coagulants are added in water treatment to remove:

A. Color
B. Dissolved gases
C. Fine suspended particles
D. Chlorine
Answer: C

179. Paints protect metals from:

A. Vibration
B. Fire
C. Corrosion
D. Water absorption
Answer: C

180. Stone commonly used for flooring is:

A. Granite
B. Basalt
C. Limestone
D. Shale
Answer: A
181. The ideal site for a building is one that is:
A. Very close to river
B. On a steep slope
C. Well-drained and leveled
D. On a swamp
Answer: C

182. Bricks should be immersed in water before use to:

A. Make them shiny
B. Reduce weight
C. Remove salt
D. Prevent absorption of water from mortar
Answer: D

183. Steel bars used in RCC are generally:

A. Smooth
B. Rusted
C. Bent
D. Ribbed or tor steel
Answer: D

184. Filtration in water treatment works best after:

A. Disinfection
B. Sedimentation
C. Coagulation
D. Chlorination
Answer: B

185. Non-ferrous metals do NOT contain:

A. Copper
B. Aluminium
C. Iron
D. Zinc
Answer: C

186. Paint consists of pigment, solvent, binder, and:

A. Water
B. Aggregate
C. Additives
D. Mortar
Answer: C

187. The term “plumb” in construction refers to:

A. Horizontality
B. Verticality
C. Strength
D. Smoothness
Answer: B

188. A commonly used plastic pipe in plumbing is:

A. GI pipe
B. PVC pipe
C. Copper pipe
D. Asbestos pipe
Answer: B

189. Cement hardens due to:

A. Air drying
B. Sunlight
C. Hydration
D. Cooling
Answer: C

190. Timber used for formwork should be:

A. Unseasoned
B. Rough
C. Smooth and seasoned
D. Old
Answer: C

191. A good mortar mix for brickwork includes:

A. Lime and clay
B. Sand and water
C. Cement, sand, and water
D. Bitumen and water
Answer: C

192. Selection of building site should consider:

A. Market prices only
B. Aesthetics only
C. Accessibility, drainage, and soil
D. Size only
Answer: C

193. Which foundation is suitable for weak soils?

A. Strip footing
B. Raft foundation
C. Shallow footing
D. Isolated footing
Answer: B

194. Aggregates improve:

A. Cost of concrete
B. Workability only
C. Strength and volume stability
D. Colour of concrete
Answer: C

195. Stones used for construction should have:

A. High absorption
B. Low hardness
C. Good crushing strength
D. Porosity
Answer: C

196. A composite material used in modern construction is:

A. Timber
B. Glass
C. Ferrocement
D. Stone
Answer: C

197. A floor slab supported on all sides is a type of:

A. Beam
B. Column
C. Two-way slab
D. One-way slab
Answer: C

198. The term “spalling” is related to:

A. Bricks
B. Water tanks
C. Concrete surface damage
D. Soil cracking
Answer: C

199. A good paint must have:

A. High drying time
B. High VOC content
C. Good coverage and durability
D. Toxic smell
Answer: C

200. A material’s resistance to weathering is known as:

A. Hardness
B. Workability
C. Durability
D. Rigidity
Answer: C

201. The National Building Code (NBC) of India is issued by:

A. BIS
B. CPWD
C. NHAI
D. CRRI
Answer: A

202. Timber used in construction must be:

A. Green
B. Seasoned
C. Wet
D. Freshly cut
Answer: B

203. Bricks are classified based on:

A. Weight
B. Color
C. Compressive strength
D. Sound
Answer: C

204. The foundation that distributes load over a large area is:
A. Isolated footing
B. Combined footing
C. Raft footing
D. Strap footing
Answer: C

205. The primary function of a foundation is to:

A. Increase height
B. Prevent cracks
C. Transfer load to soil
D. Aesthetic support
Answer: C

206. Slump test is used to measure:

A. Concrete strength
B. Water content
C. Workability of concrete
D. Cement quality
Answer: C

207. Bitumen is used in construction for:

A. Plumbing
B. Electrical wiring
C. Road construction
D. Water supply
Answer: C

208. The common method of water disinfection is:

A. Coagulation
B. Chlorination
C. Sedimentation
D. Filtration
Answer: B

209. One of the following is not a property of good bricks:

A. High crushing strength
B. Efflorescence
C. Low water absorption
D. Uniform shape
Answer: B

210. Paints are applied in:

A. Single coat
B. At least two coats
C. Five coats
D. Ten coats
Answer: B

211. Properties of a good building stone include:

A. High porosity
B. Soft texture
C. Toughness
D. Irregular shape
Answer: C

212. The modulus of elasticity of steel is approximately:

A. 2 × 10⁵ MPa
B. 2 × 10³ MPa
C. 10⁴ MPa
D. 5 × 10³ MPa
Answer: A

213. Aggregates form about how much of the volume of concrete?

A. 10%
B. 30%
C. 60–75%
D. 90%
Answer: C

214. The commonly used adhesive for woodwork is:

A. Fevicol
B. Bitumen
C. Araldite
D. Lime
Answer: A

215. Which glass is used in safety applications?

A. Normal glass
B. Sheet glass
C. Tempered glass
D. Tinted glass
Answer: C

216. The material used in waterproofing of concrete roofs is:

A. Clay
B. Bitumen
C. Lime
D. Sand
Answer: B

217. The term “bleeding” in concrete refers to:

A. Loss of cement
B. Water rising to the surface
C. Color change
D. Temperature drop
Answer: B

218. A shallow foundation is used when:

A. Soil is soft
B. Heavy structures are built
C. Load is moderate and good soil is near surface
D. Foundation needs to be deep
Answer: C

219. The presence of calcium in water causes:

A. Turbidity
B. Hardness
C. Odour
D. Acidity
Answer: B

220. Plastic is generally:

A. Brittle
B. Rigid
C. Malleable
D. Lightweight and corrosion-resistant
Answer: D

221. The foundation depth generally depends on:

A. Cost
B. Climate
C. Load and soil bearing capacity
D. Building height only
Answer: C
222. A well graded aggregate provides:
A. Poor compaction
B. High porosity
C. Better workability and strength
D. Low density
Answer: C

223. Which of the following is an example of non-ferrous metal?

A. Mild steel
B. Cast iron
C. Aluminium
D. Wrought iron
Answer: C

224. Water used for mixing concrete should be:

A. Rainwater
B. Sea water
C. Potable water
D. Stagnant water
Answer: C

225. The size of standard modular brick in India is:

A. 19 × 9 × 9 cm
B. 20 × 10 × 10 cm
C. 19 × 9 × 4 cm
D. 19 × 9 × 6 cm
Answer: D

226. Which material has highest tensile strength?

A. Timber
B. Cement
C. Steel
D. Brick
Answer: C

227. The function of coarse aggregate in concrete is to:

A. Reduce strength
B. Reduce porosity
C. Improve bonding
D. Provide bulk and strength
Answer: D

228. A good adhesive should have:

A. Low viscosity
B. Poor bonding
C. High bonding strength
D. High permeability
Answer: C
229. Screening in water treatment removes:
A. Bacteria
B. Fine particles
C. Large floating debris
D. Color
Answer: C

230. The paint component that provides color is:

A. Base
B. Pigment
C. Solvent
D. Additive
Answer: B

231. The physical property of a material that defines its resistance to scratching is:
A. Elasticity
B. Hardness
C. Creep
D. Brittleness
Answer: B

232. A site with black cotton soil is generally:

A. Suitable for heavy structures
B. Free from water issues
C. Problematic due to swelling and shrinkage
D. Ideal for bridges
Answer: C

233. The common test for checking cement quality is:

A. Slump test
B. Vicat test
C. Tensile test
D. Rebound test
Answer: B

234. The tool used to test brick soundness is:

A. UTM
B. Vernier caliper
C. Hammer
D. Finger tap test
Answer: D

235. The basic requirement for a septic tank is:

A. Painted surface
B. Reinforced walls
C. Air-tight cover
D. Proper ventilation
Answer: D

236. A material that exhibits elastic behavior returns to its original shape after:
A. Load is removed
B. It dries
C. Heating
D. Painting
Answer: A

237. Timber is classified into:

A. Hardwood and plywood
B. Hardwood and softwood
C. Greenwood and dry wood
D. Engineered and natural
Answer: B

238. The most common flooring tile material is:

A. Sand
B. Glass
C. Ceramic
D. Mortar
Answer: C

239. The disinfection step ensures water is free from:

A. Heavy metals
B. Pathogens
C. Turbidity
D. Suspended solids
Answer: B

240. The main purpose of a damp proof course is to:

A. Beautify walls
B. Prevent termites
C. Prevent water rising through walls
D. Allow wall ventilation
Answer: C

241. The ideal site for a residential building should be:

A. Close to industrial areas
B. On steep slopes
C. Well-drained and accessible
D. Near waste disposal areas
Answer: C

242. A beam is a structural component that primarily resists:

A. Axial tension
B. Shear
C. Bending
D. Compression
Answer: C

243. The initial setting time of ordinary Portland cement is:

A. 10 minutes
B. 30 minutes
C. 60 minutes
D. 24 hours
Answer: B

244. The most durable natural building material is:

A. Lime
B. Timber
C. Brick
D. Stone
Answer: D

245. Which of the following is used as a coarse aggregate?

A. Sand
B. Cement
C. Crushed stone
D. Clay
Answer: C

246. Sedimentation aided with coagulation uses:

A. Lime
B. Soda ash
C. Alum
D. Chlorine
Answer: C

247. The physical property of a material that allows it to absorb water is called:
A. Durability
B. Porosity
C. Workability
D. Plasticity
Answer: B

248. Concrete gains strength with:

A. Heating
B. Vibrating
C. Age
D. Cooling
Answer: C

249. The load-bearing component in a framed structure is:

A. Partition wall
B. Beam
C. Column
D. Flooring
Answer: C

250. The function of mortar in brick masonry is to:

A. Bind bricks together
B. Add strength
C. Provide water resistance
D. All of the above
Answer: D

251. The primary cause of water hardness is the presence of:

A. Lead
B. Iron
C. Calcium and magnesium salts
D. Sodium
Answer: C

252. Which construction material is a thermoplastic polymer?

A. Bitumen
B. PVC
C. Timber
D. Cement
Answer: B

253. The most suitable foundation for black cotton soil is:
A. Shallow foundation
B. Raft foundation
C. Strip foundation
D. Under-reamed pile foundation
Answer: D

254. The durability of concrete is affected by:

A. Water-cement ratio
B. Type of aggregate
C. Curing method
D. All of the above
Answer: D

255. Which material is commonly used for window panes?

A. Steel
B. PVC
C. Glass
D. Plastic
Answer: C

256. Which test checks the consistency of cement paste?

A. Compression test
B. Le Chatelier test
C. Vicat apparatus test
D. Fineness test
Answer: C

257. A footing is a part of:

A. Superstructure
B. Floor
C. Substructure
D. Roof
Answer: C

258. The process of removal of large floating matter in water treatment is called:
A. Coagulation
B. Sedimentation
C. Screening
D. Disinfection
Answer: C

259. A compound wall is primarily for:

A. Load carrying
B. Water storage
C. Security and privacy
D. Drainage
Answer: C

260. One of the advantages of using plastic in construction is:

A. Low weight
B. High melting point
C. Porosity
D. High thermal conductivity
Answer: A

261. The bearing capacity of sandy soil is generally:

A. Low
B. Very low
C. High
D. Negligible
Answer: C

262. Which material is best for tensile stress?

A. Brick
B. Concrete
C. Steel
D. Timber
Answer: C

263. The rise of water through the pores of bricks is known as:
A. Bleeding
B. Curing
C. Efflorescence
D. Capillarity
Answer: D

264. Tiles used in bathrooms should be:

A. Non-porous
B. Rough
C. Porous
D. Glossy
Answer: A

265. A building is classified as a residential building under NBC when it is used for:
A. Business only
B. Government use
C. Living accommodations
D. Storage
Answer: C

266. Timber used in door frames must have:

A. Softness
B. Resistance to rot and termites
C. High porosity
D. Hollow inside
Answer: B

267. Paints that dry by chemical reaction with oxygen in air are called:
A. Latex paints
B. Enamel paints
C. Oil-based paints
D. Cement paints
Answer: C

268. The most suitable aggregate size for RCC work is:
A. 5 mm
B. 10 mm
C. 20 mm
D. 40 mm
Answer: C

269. The steel used in RCC works is:

A. Cast iron
B. Mild steel
C. Galvanized steel
D. Tor steel
Answer: D
270. Mortar is a mixture of:
A. Cement and sand
B. Cement, sand and water
C. Sand and gravel
D. Cement and water only
Answer: B

271. The term “structural load” refers to:

A. Plumbing load
B. Dead, live, and wind loads
C. Paint weight
D. Footpath weight
Answer: B

272. Adhesives are primarily used for:

A. Plumbing
B. Reinforcement
C. Bonding surfaces
D. Thermal resistance
Answer: C

273. The crushing strength of a good building stone should be more than:
A. 10 N/mm²
B. 100 N/mm²
C. 3 N/mm²
D. 50 N/mm²
Answer: D

274. Disinfection of water is done after:

A. Screening
B. Sedimentation
C. Filtration
D. All of the above
Answer: D

275. The paint component that forms the tough film is the:
A. Pigment
B. Solvent
C. Base
D. Vehicle
Answer: D

276. The property of a material to resist wear and abrasion is called:

A. Durability
B. Hardness
C. Toughness
D. Stiffness
Answer: B
277. Filtration in water treatment removes:
A. Gases
B. Color
C. Suspended impurities
D. Bacteria
Answer: C

278. The commonly used tile for flooring is:

A. Cement tile
B. Asbestos tile
C. Wooden tile
D. Plastic tile
Answer: A

279. Glass is manufactured from:

A. Clay
B. Silica
C. Limestone
D. Marble
Answer: B

280. The most commonly used non-ferrous construction metal is:

A. Lead
B. Aluminium
C. Zinc
D. Bronze
Answer: B

281. The term “curing” in concrete construction refers to:

A. Removing formwork
B. Compaction of concrete
C. Maintaining moisture for strength gain
D. Surface finishing
Answer: C

282. The cement used for underwater construction is:

A. Ordinary Portland Cement
B. Quick setting cement
C. Rapid hardening cement
D. Low heat cement
Answer: B

283. Which of the following materials is most elastic?

A. Rubber
B. Steel
C. Concrete
D. Lead
Answer: B

284. The maximum height of a residential building under normal conditions as per NBC is:
A. 10 m
B. 15 m
C. 18 m
D. 24 m
Answer: C

285. Sedimentation is a process used to remove:

A. Gaseous impurities
B. Dissolved salts
C. Suspended solids
D. Pathogens
Answer: C

286. The measure of resistance offered by a material to fracture is called:

A. Ductility
B. Elasticity
C. Toughness
D. Plasticity
Answer: C

287. Which of the following is not a basic component of a building?

A. Beam
B. Roof
C. Lift
D. Foundation
Answer: C

288. Which of the following tiles are best suited for roofing?
A. Plastic tiles
B. Asbestos tiles
C. Ceramic tiles
D. Clay tiles
Answer: D

289. The main purpose of using aggregates in concrete is to:

A. Reduce cost
B. Add strength and bulk
C. Reduce cement content
D. Increase porosity
Answer: B

290. Which test is used to determine the hardness of bricks?

A. Water absorption test
B. Compression test
C. Scratch test
D. Soundness test
Answer: C

291. The water-cement ratio strongly influences the:

A. Color of concrete
B. Curing time
C. Strength and durability of concrete
D. Rate of sedimentation
Answer: C

292. A load-bearing wall:

A. Supports only its own weight
B. Supports roof and floor loads
C. Is a non-structural wall
D. Is only decorative
Answer: B

293. The most important property of glass used in buildings is:

A. Flexibility
B. Transparency
C. Porosity
D. Adhesion
Answer: B

294. The term “slump” is associated with the:

A. Strength of concrete
B. Durability of cement
C. Workability of concrete
D. Adhesiveness of mortar
Answer: C

295. The purpose of disinfection in water treatment is to:

A. Remove suspended solids
B. Improve taste
C. Kill harmful microorganisms
D. Remove turbidity
Answer: C

296. The binding material in mortar is generally:

A. Clay
B. Sand
C. Cement or lime
D. Bitumen
Answer: C

297. Which of the following metals is corrosion-resistant and used in roofing?

A. Aluminium
B. Cast iron
C. Mild steel
D. Lead
Answer: A

298. A structure is considered stable when:

A. It doesn’t deform
B. It can resist environmental loads
C. It collapses easily
D. It expands under heat
Answer: B

299. The density of good quality concrete is approximately:

A. 1800 kg/m³
B. 2200 kg/m³
C. 2400 kg/m³
D. 2600 kg/m³
Answer: C

300. Vicat apparatus is used to test the:

A. Strength of bricks
B. Setting time of cement
C. Durability of concrete
D. Water absorption of stones
Answer: B

301. The foundation which covers the entire area of a structure is called:
A. Raft foundation
B. Isolated footing
C. Pile foundation
D. Strip footing
Answer: A

302. Which component of paint provides color and opacity?

A. Solvent
B. Base
C. Pigment
D. Vehicle
Answer: C

303. The most suitable material for thermal insulation is:

A. Steel
B. Wood
C. Glass wool
D. Concrete
Answer: C

304. The full form of NBC is:

A. National Building Construction
B. National Building Code
C. New Building Code
D. National Building Council
Answer: B

305. Which metal is non-ferrous?

A. Cast iron
B. Aluminium
C. Carbon steel
D. Pig iron
Answer: B

306. The function of steel in RCC is to:

A. Improve appearance
B. Provide tensile strength
C. Reduce curing time
D. Act as insulation
Answer: B

307. The purpose of plastering is to:

A. Reduce load
B. Increase heat
C. Provide smooth surface
D. Prevent sunlight
Answer: C

308. Which of the following bricks is best in quality?

A. First-class brick
B. Second-class brick
C. Third-class brick
D. Jhama brick
Answer: A

309. In foundation design, SBC refers to:

A. Soil Bulk Content
B. Safe Bearing Capacity
C. Standard Base Concrete
D. Specific Bond Cement
Answer: B

310. The most commonly used disinfectant in water treatment is:

A. Alum
B. Bleaching powder
C. Chlorine
D. Potash
Answer: C

311. A brick should not absorb water more than:

A. 5%
B. 10%
C. 15%
D. 20%
Answer: D

312. The unit of compressive strength is:

A. kg
B. N
C. N/mm²
D. mm
Answer: C

313. Piles are most suitable when the soil is:

A. Hard and rocky
B. Strong and dry
C. Weak and compressible
D. Non-cohesive
Answer: C

314. Which component of water treatment removes fine suspended solids?

A. Screening
B. Coagulation
C. Filtration
D. Disinfection
Answer: C

315. Lead is generally used in construction for:

A. Structural frames
B. Roofing sheets
C. Electrical insulation
D. Sanitary pipelines
Answer: D

316. Cracks in building foundations are usually caused by:

A. Painting defects
B. Structural overload
C. Low temperature
D. Wall thickness
Answer: B

317. Composites are materials made by combining:

A. Same type of materials
B. Cement and sand
C. Two or more distinct materials
D. Lime and brick
Answer: C
318. The strength of timber is measured by its:
A. Thickness
B. Moisture content
C. Grain direction
D. Color
Answer: C

319. The primary use of adhesives in construction is for:

A. Painting
B. Joining components
C. Welding
D. Curing
Answer: B

320. Which one of the following is a method of improving soil bearing capacity?
A. Soaking
B. Increasing porosity
C. Compaction
D. Overwatering
Answer: C

321. Which is the best grade of concrete for residential buildings?

A. M10
B. M15
C. M20
D. M25
Answer: C

322. The material used as a pozzolanic additive in cement is:

A. Gypsum
B. Fly ash
C. Lime
D. Silica
Answer: B

323. The compressive strength of first-class bricks should not be less than:
A. 5 N/mm²
B. 7.5 N/mm²
C. 10 N/mm²
D. 15 N/mm²
Answer: C

324. The term “efflorescence” in bricks is caused due to:

A. Heat exposure
B. Water absorption
C. Presence of soluble salts
D. Cracks due to load
Answer: C
325. A raft foundation is most suitable when:
A. Columns are closely spaced
B. Soil has high bearing capacity
C. Load is very light
D. For multistoried buildings only
Answer: A

326. Disinfection in water treatment is done after:

A. Screening
B. Sedimentation
C. Coagulation
D. Filtration
Answer: D

327. Timber seasoning is done to:

A. Harden the timber
B. Remove bark
C. Reduce moisture
D. Make it fireproof
Answer: C

328. The material used to bind aggregates in asphalt concrete is:

A. Cement
B. Lime
C. Bitumen
D. Mortar
Answer: C

329. Lime used in whitewashing is:

A. Quick lime
B. Slaked lime
C. Hydraulic lime
D. Dolomitic lime
Answer: B

330. Coagulation in water treatment helps in:

A. Killing bacteria
B. Reducing pH
C. Settling fine particles
D. Removing gases
Answer: C

331. Which one is a non-ferrous construction material?

A. Cast iron
B. Wrought iron
C. Mild steel
D. Copper
Answer: D

332. The primary function of formwork is to:

A. Reinforce concrete
B. Support during construction
C. Act as finish
D. Reduce shrinkage
Answer: B

333. Plaster of Paris is obtained from:

A. Limestone
B. Gypsum
C. Cement
D. Sandstone
Answer: B

334. The purpose of using plastic in construction is for:

A. Load bearing
B. Reinforcement
C. Insulation and aesthetic components
D. Reducing foundation depth
Answer: C

335. Which test determines the workability of concrete?

A. Impact test
B. Slump test
C. Compression test
D. Soundness test
Answer: B

336. The sedimentation tank is designed for a detention time of:

A. 10–20 minutes
B. 2–6 hours
C. 1 day
D. 24 hours
Answer: B

337. Paints are classified based on their:

A. Drying time
B. Application area
C. Base material
D. Adhesiveness
Answer: C

338. Which type of foundation is best for black cotton soil?

A. Strip footing
B. Mat footing
C. Pile foundation
D. Combined footing
Answer: C

339. Concrete gains most of its strength in:

A. First 7 days
B. First 28 days
C. First 90 days
D. First 2 days
Answer: B

340. The component added in cement to delay the setting time is:
A. Clay
B. Silica
C. Gypsum
D. Lime
Answer: C

341. The major ingredient in bricks is:

A. Sand
B. Cement
C. Clay
D. Lime
Answer: C

342. The durability of a construction material refers to its:

A. Cost-effectiveness
B. Color retention
C. Resistance to weathering
D. Texture
Answer: C

343. Which aggregate is preferred for high-strength concrete?

A. River gravel
B. Crushed stone
C. Sandstone
D. Clay pebbles
Answer: B

344. Adhesives used in buildings should have high:

A. Conductivity
B. Water absorption
C. Bonding strength
D. Transparency
Answer: C

345. A footing is a part of:

A. Roof
B. Foundation
C. Wall
D. Flooring
Answer: B

346. Which of the following is used to increase the workability of concrete?

A. Superplasticizer
B. Lime
C. Fly ash
D. Gypsum
Answer: A

347. Which of the following materials is the least ductile?

A. Aluminium
B. Lead
C. Cast iron
D. Copper
Answer: C

348. When water passes through layers of sand and gravel, the process is known as:
A. Coagulation
B. Sedimentation
C. Filtration
D. Screening
Answer: C

349. The fire resistance of timber can be improved by:

A. Oil painting
B. Sand blasting
C. Fire-retardant chemicals
D. Using thinner sections
Answer: C

350. The most important mechanical property of steel is its:

A. Color
B. Hardness
C. Ductility
D. Toughness
Answer: D

351. NBC recommends minimum ceiling height in residential rooms as:

A. 2.4 m
B. 2.75 m
C. 3 m
D. 3.5 m
Answer: B

352. The modulus of elasticity of concrete is around:

A. 0.1 × 10⁵ MPa
B. 2 × 10⁵ MPa
C. 5 × 10⁴ MPa
D. 20 × 10⁵ MPa
Answer: C

353. Which material is used to waterproof roofs?

A. Paint
B. Mortar
C. Bitumen
D. Sand
Answer: C

354. The basic requirement of a good building site includes:

A. High water table
B. Poor drainage
C. Good soil bearing capacity
D. Narrow roads
Answer: C

355. The disinfection efficiency of chlorine depends on:

A. Water color
B. Contact time and pH
C. Water temperature
D. Hardness
Answer: B

356. Sand is classified based on:

A. Hardness
B. Color
C. Grain size
D. Source
Answer: C

357. Fine aggregates are usually passed through a sieve of:

A. 4.75 mm
B. 10 mm
C. 2.36 mm
D. 1 mm
Answer: A

358. Which of the following is an example of a composite material?

A. Concrete
B. Marble
C. Timber
D. Clay
Answer: A

359. Paint should not be applied on a surface when:

A. The surface is clean
B. Weather is dry
C. The surface is wet
D. The temperature is moderate
Answer: C

360. The mechanical property that describes a material’s resistance to deformation under
load is:
A. Elasticity
B. Plasticity
C. Stiffness
D. Malleability
Answer: C

361. The foundation type used for heavy columns with small footing area is:
A. Spread footing
B. Raft foundation
C. Pile foundation
D. Strip footing
Answer: C

362. The NBC stands for:

A. National Building Code
B. National Brick Code
C. National Base Code
D. National Building Council
Answer: A

363. Which of the following is a physical property of construction materials?

A. Compressive strength
B. Hardness
C. Density
D. Toughness
Answer: C

364. The water content of timber is called:

A. Moisture content
B. Dry content
C. Fiber content
D. Resin content
Answer: A

365. The most commonly used cement in construction is:

A. Portland cement
B. Rapid hardening cement
C. Sulphate resisting cement
D. White cement
Answer: A
366. Which test is used to determine the fineness of cement?
A. Slump test
B. Vicat test
C. Blaine’s air permeability test
D. Compressive strength test
Answer: C

367. A building component that transmits load to the soil is called:

A. Column
B. Beam
C. Foundation
D. Slab
Answer: C

368. The main purpose of screening in water treatment is to:

A. Remove floating debris
B. Kill bacteria
C. Remove suspended solids
D. Adjust pH
Answer: A

369. Which property of aggregate affects the durability of concrete the most?
A. Shape
B. Size
C. Hardness
D. Porosity
Answer: D

370. The binding material used in mortar is:

A. Cement
B. Lime
C. Sand
D. Aggregate
Answer: B

371. The setting time of cement is mainly controlled by:

A. Cement fineness
B. Gypsum content
C. Temperature
D. Humidity
Answer: B

372. Which type of brick is best for load-bearing walls?

A. First-class bricks
B. Second-class bricks
C. Third-class bricks
D. Fly ash bricks
Answer: A

373. The process of removing fine suspended particles in water is called:

A. Screening
B. Coagulation
C. Filtration
D. Disinfection
Answer: C

374. The percentage of voids in a brick is called:

A. Porosity
B. Absorption
C. Efflorescence
D. Permeability
Answer: A

375. Which of the following is a mechanical property of steel?

A. Tensile strength
B. Density
C. Color
D. Electrical conductivity
Answer: A

376. The water-cement ratio for good quality concrete usually lies between:
A. 0.2–0.4
B. 0.4–0.6
C. 0.6–0.8
D. 0.8–1.0
Answer: B

377. The water used in concrete should be:

A. Free from impurities
B. Acidic
C. Saline
D. Alkaline
Answer: A

378. The term “bearing capacity” refers to:

A. The strength of foundation material
B. Load a soil can carry without failure
C. Load carried by the building
D. Weight of the building material
Answer: B

379. The slump test is conducted to check:

A. Compressive strength of concrete
B. Workability of concrete
C. Setting time of cement
D. Fineness of cement
Answer: B

380. The coagulant commonly used in water treatment plants is:

A. Lime
B. Alum
C. Chlorine
D. Fluoride
Answer: B

381. Which aggregate size is generally used for concrete work?

A. 0–4 mm
B. 4–20 mm
C. 20–40 mm
D. 40–60 mm
Answer: B

382. Which material provides the best thermal insulation?

A. Glass
B. Concrete
C. Plastic foam
D. Steel
Answer: C

383. The ratio of volume of voids to the total volume of aggregate is called:
A. Porosity
B. Bulk density
C. Specific gravity
D. Absorption
Answer: A

384. Timber can be protected from termites by:

A. Painting with oil
B. Applying chemical preservatives
C. Water soaking
D. Drying in sunlight
Answer: B

385. Which property of cement affects the rate of hydration?

A. Color
B. Fineness
C. Texture
D. Density
Answer: B

386. The coagulant used in water treatment aids in:

A. Settling suspended particles
B. Killing bacteria
C. Removing odor
D. Increasing pH
Answer: A

387. The mortar used for plastering should have:

A. High strength
B. High workability
C. High water absorption
D. Low adhesion
Answer: B

388. The NBC specifies the minimum thickness of walls in residential buildings as:
A. 150 mm
B. 230 mm
C. 300 mm
D. 450 mm
Answer: A

389. Which of the following is a non-metallic construction material?

A. Steel
B. Timber
C. Aluminum
D. Copper
Answer: B

390. The main purpose of disinfection in water treatment is to:

A. Remove turbidity
B. Kill pathogenic organisms
C. Reduce pH
D. Remove suspended solids
Answer: B

391. Which of the following materials is used as an aggregate in concrete?

A. Sand
B. Lime
C. Clay
D. Cement
Answer: A

392. The physical property that indicates resistance to scratching is:

A. Hardness
B. Toughness
C. Malleability
D. Ductility
Answer: A

393. The chemical used for disinfection in water treatment is:

A. Alum
B. Chlorine
C. Fluoride
D. Lime
Answer: B

394. The property of steel that enables it to be drawn into wires is:
A. Hardness
B. Ductility
C. Brittleness
D. Toughness
Answer: B

395. Which of the following is a composite material?

A. Steel
B. Timber
C. Concrete
D. Glass
Answer: C

396. In water treatment, sedimentation tanks remove:

A. Dissolved solids
B. Suspended solids
C. Bacteria
D. Algae
Answer: B

397. Which paint type is most durable for external walls?

A. Oil-based paint
B. Water-based paint
C. Distemper
D. Whitewash
Answer: A

398. The term ‘aggregate’ in construction refers to:

A. Binding material
B. Fine and coarse particles
C. Water content
D. Cementitious materials
Answer: B

399. The process of removing coarse impurities from raw water is called:
A. Coagulation
B. Screening
C. Filtration
D. Disinfection
Answer: B
400. The property of concrete which describes its ability to withstand loads without failure
is called:
A. Plasticity
B. Strength
C. Elasticity
D. Workability
Answer: B

30 Numericals
1. If a concrete mix has a water-cement ratio of 0.5 and 400 kg of cement, how much water
is required?
A. 100 kg
B. 150 kg
C. 200 kg
D. 250 kg
Answer: C

2. A brick measures 190 mm × 90 mm × 90 mm. Its volume in cubic meters is:

A. 0.001539 m³
B. 0.00171 m³
C. 0.00145 m³
D. 0.00160 m³
Answer: A
(0.19 × 0.09 × 0.09 = 0.001539 m³)

3. The density of water is 1000 kg/m³. If 0.5 m³ of water is used in concrete, its weight is:
A. 500 kg
B. 50 kg
C. 1000 kg
D. 1500 kg
Answer: A

4. If the bearing capacity of soil is 150 kN/m², the safe load on a 2 m × 3 m footing is:
A. 600 kN
B. 900 kN
C. 300 kN
D. 150 kN
Answer: B
(150 × 2 × 3 = 900 kN)

5. A cube of concrete of 150 mm size breaks under a load of 150 kN. Its compressive
strength in N/mm² is:
A. 6.67
B. 7.50
C. 5.33
D. 8.00
Answer: A
(Stress = Load/Area = 150,000 / (150×150) = 6.67 N/mm²)
6. If 1 m³ of concrete requires 400 kg of cement, 700 kg of sand, and 1200 kg of aggregate,
what is the total weight of materials?
A. 2300 kg
B. 2100 kg
C. 2600 kg
D. 2800 kg
Answer: A

7. The specific gravity of a stone is 2.7. If its density is 2700 kg/m³, what is the density of
water?
A. 1000 kg/m³
B. 500 kg/m³
C. 2000 kg/m³
D. 2700 kg/m³
Answer: A

8. A water tank with volume 5 m³ is filled at a rate of 0.1 m³/min. The time taken to fill it is:
A. 50 minutes
B. 25 minutes
C. 100 minutes
D. 10 minutes
Answer: A

9. A brick wall is 230 mm thick and 3 m high. The number of bricks required for 1 m length,
assuming brick size 190 mm × 90 mm × 90 mm, is:
A. 18
B. 16
C. 20
D. 15
Answer: A
(Wall volume = 3 × 1 × 0.23 = 0.69 m³; Brick volume = 0.19×0.09×0.09=0.001539; No. Of
bricks = 0.69/0.001539 ≈ 448, but considering mortar and arrangement, approx. 18 bricks
per sqm face area)

10. The amount of water needed for 1 m³ of concrete with water-cement ratio 0.45 and
cement 350 kg is:
A. 157.5 kg
B. 350 kg
C. 450 kg
D. 175 kg
Answer: A
(0.45 × 350 = 157.5 kg)

11. The area of a footing is 4 m² and the allowable bearing capacity is 120 kN/m². The
maximum safe load it can carry is:
A. 480 kN
B. 300 kN
C. 120 kN
D. 600 kN
Answer: A

12. The bulk density of a soil sample is 1.6 g/cm³. Its weight in kg per cubic meter is:
A. 1600 kg/m³
B. 1.6 kg/m³
C. 160 kg/m³
D. 16 kg/m³
Answer: A

13. If the absorption capacity of bricks is 10%, the water absorbed by 1 kg of brick is:
A. 0.1 kg
B. 1 kg
C. 0.01 kg
D. 10 kg
Answer: A

14. The compressive strength of brick is 10 N/mm². If the load applied is 1000 kN, the area
required is:
A. 100,000 mm²
B. 10,000 mm²
C. 1,000 mm²
D. 50,000 mm²
Answer: A

15. The volume of concrete required for a slab of 5 m length, 4 m width and 0.15 m
thickness is:
A. 3 m³
B. 4.5 m³
C. 5 m³
D. 2 m³
Answer: A
(5×4×0.15 = 3 m³)

16. A water sample contains 0.2 mg/L of chlorine. The mass of chlorine in 1000 liters is:
A. 0.2 g
B. 2 g
C. 20 g
D. 200 g
Answer: B

17. The size of coarse aggregate used in concrete is:

A. 20 mm
B. 5 mm
C. 1 mm
D. 0.5 mm
Answer: A
18. The coefficient of water absorption of a stone is 1.5%. If the dry weight is 200 kg, the
weight of water absorbed is:
A. 3 kg
B. 30 kg
C. 15 kg
D. 1.5 kg
Answer: A

19. A concrete mix uses 600 kg of coarse aggregate and 300 kg of sand. The total aggregate
content is:
A. 900 kg
B. 300 kg
C. 600 kg
D. 1,200 kg
Answer: A

20. The compressive strength of cement is generally tested on cubes of size:

A. 150 mm
B. 100 mm
C. 50 mm
D. 200 mm
Answer: A

21. The permissible settlement for residential buildings is approximately:

A. 25 mm
B. 100 mm
C. 50 mm
D. 200 mm
Answer: A

22. The volume of mortar in 1 m³ of brick masonry is roughly:

A. 0.2 m³
B. 0.5 m³
C. 0.1 m³
D. 0.3 m³
Answer: A

23. The typical density of timber is:

A. 600 kg/m³
B. 1600 kg/m³
C. 2700 kg/m³
D. 1000 kg/m³
Answer: A

24. The amount of cement in mortar mix 1:6 for 1 m³ is approximately:

A. 143 kg
B. 200 kg
C. 100 kg
D. 300 kg
Answer: A

25. The minimum thickness of residential walls according to NBC is:

A. 150 mm
B. 200 mm
C. 300 mm
D. 100 mm
Answer: A

26. If a water tank leaks 5 liters per minute, how much water will be lost in a day?
A. 7,200 liters
B. 720 liters
C. 72,000 liters
D. 7200 ml
Answer: A
(5 × 60 × 24 = 7200 liters)

27. The percentage of water in wet timber is called:

A. Moisture content
B. Water ratio
C. Density
D. Absorption
Answer: A

28. The effective size of a sand sample is 0.5 mm. This means:
A. 50% particles are smaller than 0.5 mm
B. 5% particles are smaller than 0.5 mm
C. 95% particles are smaller than 0.5 mm
D. 25% particles are smaller than 0.5 mm
Answer: A

29. The fineness modulus of sand usually ranges from:

A. 2.2 to 3.2
B. 1.0 to 2.0
C. 3.5 to 4.5
D. 4.5 to 5.5
Answer: A

30. The mixing ratio for concrete grade M20 is:

A. 1:1.5:3
B. [Link]
C. [Link]
D. [Link]
Answer: A