Top 50 MCQ on Basic of Cement for GATE | RRB | SSC JE | Exams

Top 50 MCQ on Basic of Cement for GATE | RRB | SSC JE | Exams

This post provides the Top 50 MCQ on Basic of Cement for GATE, RRB, SSC JE Exams for civil engineers. Go through the every single questions and get the detailed understanding of Basic of Cement.

Top 50 MCQ on Basic of Cement for GATE | RRB | SSC JE | Exams


  1. What is concrete primarily composed of?
    • a) Cement, water, and aggregates
    • b) Cement, steel, and water
    • c) Water, sand, and lime
    • d) Steel, lime, and aggregates

Answer: a) Cement, water, and aggregates 

Explanation: Concrete is a composite material made up of cement, water, and aggregates (sand, gravel, or crushed stone).

  1. Which component in concrete acts as the binder?
    • a) Water
    • b) Cement
    • c) Aggregates
    • d) Sand

Answer: b) Cement 

Explanation: Cement acts as the binder that holds the aggregates together once it hardens and sets.

  1. What role does water play in concrete?
    • a) Increases strength
    • b) Acts as a filler
    • c) Initiates the chemical reaction
    • d) Reduces setting time

Answer: c) Initiates the chemical reaction 

Explanation: Water initiates the hydration process of cement, which leads to the hardening and gaining strength of concrete.

Importance and Applications in Civil Engineering

  1. Which of the following is NOT a common use of concrete in civil engineering?
    • a) Bridges
    • b) Dams
    • c) Roads
    • d) Insulation material

Answer: d) Insulation material 

Explanation: Concrete is widely used in construction for bridges, dams, and roads due to its strength and durability, but it is not commonly used as an insulation material.

  1. Why is concrete preferred in the construction of skyscrapers?
    • a) It's lightweight
    • b) High compressive strength
    • c) Recyclability
    • d) Color variety

Answer: b) High compressive strength 

Explanation: Concrete's high compressive strength makes it ideal for supporting the loads and stresses involved in skyscraper construction.

  1. What is one of the main advantages of using concrete in road construction?
    • a) Flexibility
    • b) Durability
    • c) Light weight
    • d) High cost

Answer: b) Durability 

Explanation: Concrete roads are known for their long lifespan and durability under heavy traffic conditions.

  1. Who is credited with the invention of Portland cement, which is a key ingredient in modern concrete?
    • a) Thomas Edison
    • b) Joseph Aspdin
    • c) Leonardo da Vinci
    • d) Albert Einstein

Answer: b) Joseph Aspdin 

Explanation: Joseph Aspdin, an English bricklayer, patented Portland cement in 1824.

  1. When was the earliest known use of concrete-like materials in construction?
    • a) Ancient Egypt
    • b) Roman Empire
    • c) Ancient China
    • d) Mesopotamia

Answer: b) Roman Empire 

Explanation: The Romans developed early forms of concrete and used it extensively in their constructions around 300 BC.

  1. What ancient structure is an example of early use of concrete by the Romans?
    • a) Pyramids of Giza
    • b) Colosseum
    • c) Great Wall of China
    • d) Eiffel Tower

Answer: b) Colosseum 

Explanation: The Colosseum in Rome is one of the many structures built using Roman concrete, showcasing its early use and durability.

  1. Which of the following advancements significantly improved the quality and versatility of concrete in the 20th century?
    • a) Introduction of rebar (reinforcing steel)
    • b) Use of natural pigments
    • c) Development of plastic formworks
    • d) Introduction of glass fibers

Answer: a) Introduction of rebar (reinforcing steel) 

Explanation: The introduction of reinforcing steel (rebar) significantly enhanced the tensile strength and versatility of concrete in the 20th century.

  1. What is the process called when concrete hardens over time?
    • a) Setting
    • b) Curing
    • c) Hydration
    • d) Calcination

Answer: b) Curing 

Explanation: Curing is the process of maintaining adequate moisture, temperature, and time to allow the concrete to achieve its desired properties for its intended use.

  1. Which type of aggregate is typically used in the production of concrete?
    • a) Fine aggregates
    • b) Coarse aggregates
    • c) Both fine and coarse aggregates
    • d) Lightweight aggregates

Answer: c) Both fine and coarse aggregates 

Explanation: Concrete is usually made using a combination of fine (sand) and coarse (gravel or crushed stone) aggregates to achieve the desired strength and durability.

  1. Which property of concrete is crucial for its performance in structures like bridges and buildings?
    • a) Flexibility
    • b) Compressive strength
    • c) Color
    • d) Weight

Answer: b) Compressive strength 

Explanation: Compressive strength is essential for concrete used in structural applications to withstand the loads and stresses imposed on it.

  1. Concrete is preferred in construction due to its ability to:
    • a) Resist weathering and chemical attacks
    • b) Be lightweight
    • c) Be easily deformed
    • d) Conduct electricity

Answer: a) Resist weathering and chemical attacks 

Explanation: Concrete's durability and resistance to weathering and chemical attacks make it ideal for long-lasting construction.

  1. What is one of the reasons for using reinforced concrete in construction?
    • a) Increased flexibility
    • b) Enhanced tensile strength
    • c) Improved color consistency
    • d) Reduced cost

Answer: b) Enhanced tensile strength 

Explanation: Reinforcing concrete with steel bars (rebar) significantly improves its tensile strength, making it suitable for various structural applications.

16.  Which ancient civilization is credited with the extensive use of pozzolanic materials in concrete?

    • a) Greeks
    • b) Egyptians
    • c) Romans
    • d) Mayans

Answer: c) Romans 

Explanation: The Romans extensively used pozzolanic materials, which enhanced the durability and strength of their concrete structures.

17.  What is the significance of the Pantheon in Rome in terms of concrete history?

    • a) It's the oldest concrete structure
    • b) It has the largest unreinforced concrete dome
    • c) It's the tallest concrete structure
    • d) It was the first concrete structure to use rebar

Answer: b) It has the largest unreinforced concrete dome 

Explanation: The Pantheon's dome is an architectural marvel and the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world, showcasing the advanced use of concrete by the Romans.

18.  How did the development of Portland cement revolutionize concrete technology?

    • a) It made concrete lighter
    • b) It improved the setting time and strength
    • c) It reduced the cost of concrete
    • d) It changed the color of concrete

Answer: b) It improved the setting time and strength 

Explanation: Portland cement significantly improved the setting time and strength of concrete, making it more reliable and versatile for construction.

19.  When did the widespread use of concrete in modern construction begin?

    • a) 17th century
    • b) 18th century
    • c) 19th century
    • d) 20th century

Answer: c) 19th century Explanation: The widespread use of concrete in modern construction began in the 19th century with the development of Portland cement and reinforced concrete techniques.

20.  What is the primary benefit of using fly ash in concrete production?

    • a) It increases weight
    • b) It reduces shrinkage
    • c) It improves thermal insulation
    • d) It enhances workability and strength

Answer: d) It enhances workability and strength 

Explanation: Fly ash improves the workability and strength of concrete, and its use in concrete production also helps in the disposal of industrial waste.

  1. Which of the following is a characteristic property of hardened concrete?
    • a) Elasticity
    • b) Ductility
    • c) Brittleness
    • d) Flexibility

Answer: c) Brittleness 

Explanation: Hardened concrete is known for its brittleness, meaning it can crack or break under stress without significant deformation.

  1. What is the term used for the fine, powdered form of calcium silicates and aluminates that react with water to form concrete?
    • a) Lime
    • b) Cement
    • c) Gypsum
    • d) Slag

Answer: b) Cement 

Explanation: Cement is the fine powdered material that reacts with water to form a paste that binds aggregates together, resulting in concrete.

  1. What is the primary reason for using concrete in underwater construction?
    • a) Lightweight
    • b) High tensile strength
    • c) Impermeability
    • d) Aesthetic appeal

Answer: c) Impermeability 

Explanation: Concrete's impermeability makes it ideal for underwater construction as it can prevent water from seeping through, ensuring structural integrity.

  1. Which method is commonly used to increase the early strength of concrete?
    • a) Adding more water
    • b) Using high-early-strength cement
    • c) Reducing aggregate size
    • d) Increasing curing time

Answer: b) Using high-early-strength cement 

Explanation: High-early-strength cement is used to accelerate the strength gain of concrete, especially in situations where quick form removal or load application is necessary.

  1. In the context of concrete technology, what does "workability" refer to?
    • a) Durability
    • b) Ease of mixing and placing
    • c) Strength development
    • d) Aesthetic finish

Answer: b) Ease of mixing and placing 

Explanation: Workability refers to how easily concrete can be mixed, placed, and finished without segregation or excessive bleeding.

26.  Which civilization first used hydraulic lime mortar, a precursor to modern cement?

    • a) Egyptians
    • b) Greeks
    • c) Romans
    • d) Chinese

Answer: b) Greeks 

Explanation: The Greeks used hydraulic lime mortar, which could set under water, paving the way for advancements in cement technology.

27.  What was the main drawback of ancient Roman concrete compared to modern concrete?

    • a) Longer setting time
    • b) Lower tensile strength
    • c) Limited availability
    • d) High cost

Answer: b) Lower tensile strength 

Explanation: Ancient Roman concrete had lower tensile strength compared to modern concrete, which is enhanced with reinforcing materials like steel.

Answer: a) Joseph Monier 

Explanation: Joseph Monier, a French gardener, patented the use of reinforced concrete in the 19th century, significantly advancing concrete technology.

28.  Which of the following innovations in the 20th century greatly influenced modern concrete construction?

    • a) Plastic formworks
    • b) Post-tensioning techniques
    • c) Synthetic aggregates
    • d) Green concrete

Answer: b) Post-tensioning techniques 

Explanation: Post-tensioning techniques involve applying tension to steel tendons after the concrete has hardened, enhancing its strength and performance in structures.

29.  What role did the introduction of ready-mix concrete play in the construction industry?

    • a) Reduced concrete costs
    • b) Improved concrete quality control
    • c) Decreased construction time
    • d) Increased environmental impact

Answer: b) Improved concrete quality control 

Explanation: The introduction of ready-mix concrete allowed for better quality control, consistency, and efficiency in the construction process.

  1. What does the term "aggregate gradation" refer to in concrete mix design?
    • a) Size distribution of aggregate particles
    • b) Color variation of aggregates
    • c) Chemical composition of aggregates
    • d) Shape of aggregate particles

Answer: a) Size distribution of aggregate particles 

Explanation: Aggregate gradation refers to the distribution of particle sizes in aggregates, which affects the workability and strength of concrete.

  1. Which of the following is a method to test the workability of concrete?
    • a) Compressive strength test
    • b) Slump test
    • c) Tensile strength test
    • d) Flexural strength test

Answer: b) Slump test 

Explanation: The slump test is a common method to measure the workability or consistency of fresh concrete.

  1. What is the primary function of admixtures in concrete?
    • a) Increase weight
    • b) Enhance specific properties
    • c) Change color
    • d) Increase curing time

Answer: b) Enhance specific properties 

Explanation: Admixtures are added to concrete to enhance properties such as workability, durability, and setting time.

  1. What is the purpose of using air-entraining agents in concrete?
    • a) Increase strength
    • b) Improve workability
    • c) Increase resistance to freezing and thawing
    • d) Decrease curing time

Answer: c) Increase resistance to freezing and thawing 

Explanation: Air-entraining agents introduce tiny air bubbles into the concrete to improve its resistance to freezing and thawing cycles.

  1. In which type of construction is high-performance concrete (HPC) particularly useful?
    • a) Pavements
    • b) Skyscrapers
    • c) Low-cost housing
    • d) Sidewalks

Answer: b) Skyscrapers 

Explanation: High-performance concrete is used in skyscrapers and other structures requiring high strength, durability, and resistance to environmental conditions.

  1. Which innovation in concrete technology allows for the creation of long-span bridges without joints?
    • a) Precast concrete
    • b) Post-tensioned concrete
    • c) Reinforced concrete
    • d) Shotcrete

Answer: b) Post-tensioned concrete 

Explanation: Post-tensioned concrete allows for long spans without joints, making it ideal for bridges and other large structures.

  1. What was a significant contribution to concrete technology by John Smeaton in the 18th century?
    • a) Invention of reinforced concrete
    • b) Development of hydraulic lime
    • c) Introduction of admixtures
    • d) Creation of fiber-reinforced concrete

Answer: b) Development of hydraulic lime 

Explanation: John Smeaton developed hydraulic lime, which could set under water, marking a significant advancement in concrete technology.

  1. Which 20th-century innovation led to the widespread use of concrete in the construction of large infrastructure projects?
    • a) Ready-mix concrete
    • b) Fiber-reinforced concrete
    • c) Self-compacting concrete
    • d) Lightweight concrete

Answer: a) Ready-mix concrete 

Explanation: Ready-mix concrete revolutionized the construction industry by providing a convenient and consistent concrete mix for large infrastructure projects.

  1. What was the primary reason for the development of fiber-reinforced concrete?
    • a) Reduce cost
    • b) Increase tensile strength
    • c) Improve aesthetics
    • d) Decrease weight

Answer: b) Increase tensile strength 

Explanation: Fiber-reinforced concrete was developed to enhance the tensile strength and crack resistance of concrete.

  1. Which innovation in concrete technology helps in reducing the environmental impact of concrete production?
    • a) Green concrete
    • b) High-strength concrete
    • c) Air-entrained concrete
    • d) Precast concrete

Answer: a) Green concrete 

Explanation: Green concrete incorporates recycled materials and is designed to have a lower environmental impact compared to traditional concrete.

  1. What is the effect of using too much water in a concrete mix?
    • a) Increased strength
    • b) Decreased strength
    • c) Improved workability
    • d) Enhanced durability

Answer: b) Decreased strength 

Explanation: Using too much water in a concrete mix dilutes the cement paste, leading to lower strength and increased porosity.

  1. Which of the following is NOT a type of concrete?
    • a) Self-compacting concrete
    • b) High-performance concrete
    • c) Fiber-reinforced concrete
    • d) Elastic concrete

Answer: d) Elastic concrete 

Explanation: Elastic concrete is not a recognized type of concrete. Concrete is generally not known for its elasticity.

  1. How does silica fume enhance the properties of concrete?
    • a) Increases workability
    • b) Reduces setting time
    • c) Enhances strength and durability
    • d) Changes color

Answer: c) Enhances strength and durability 

Explanation: Silica fume is a highly reactive pozzolanic material that enhances the strength and durability of concrete.

  1. What is the purpose of curing concrete?
    • a) To increase temperature
    • b) To maintain moisture and temperature
    • c) To change the color
    • d) To decrease the setting time

Answer: b) To maintain moisture and temperature 

Explanation: Curing involves maintaining moisture and temperature conditions to ensure proper hydration and strength development in concrete.

  1. Which of the following materials is commonly used as a pozzolan in concrete?
    • a) Sand
    • b) Gravel
    • c) Silica fume
    • d) Fly ash

Answer: d) Fly ash 

Explanation: Fly ash is a commonly used pozzolan that reacts with calcium hydroxide to form compounds that enhance the properties of concrete.

  1. What is the term for the chemical reaction between cement and water in concrete?
    • a) Fusion
    • b) Hydration
    • c) Solidification
    • d) Polymerization

Answer: b) Hydration 

Explanation: Hydration is the chemical reaction between cement and water, which leads to the hardening and strength development of concrete.

  1. Which type of cement is often used for structures exposed to sulfate-rich environments?
    • a) Ordinary Portland cement
    • b) Rapid hardening cement
    • c) Sulfate-resisting Portland cement
    • d) Low heat cement

Answer: c) Sulfate-resisting Portland cement 

Explanation: Sulfate-resisting Portland cement is formulated to withstand the harmful effects of sulfates, making it suitable for structures in sulfate-rich environments.

  1. What property of concrete makes it suitable for use in radiation shielding?
    • a) High density
    • b) Low permeability
    • c) Flexibility
    • d) Color variety

Answer: a) High density 

Explanation: The high density of concrete makes it effective at absorbing and blocking radiation, making it ideal for use in radiation shielding structures.

  1. How does the addition of silica fume affect the properties of concrete?
    • a) Increases porosity
    • b) Reduces strength
    • c) Enhances durability and strength
    • d) Decreases workability

Answer: c) Enhances durability and strength 

Explanation: Silica fume, a byproduct of silicon and ferrosilicon production, enhances the durability and strength of concrete by filling in voids and reducing porosity.

  1. In what type of construction are lightweight concrete blocks commonly used?
    • a) Skyscraper foundations
    • b) Thermal insulation in buildings
    • c) Underwater structures
    • d) High-traffic pavements

Answer: b) Thermal insulation in buildings 

Explanation: Lightweight concrete blocks are commonly used for thermal insulation in buildings due to their lower density and insulating properties.

 

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