Basic Civil Engineering Questions and Answers - Components of Building

1. In a truss structure, _________ bear tension.
a) Joints
b) Base
c) Bottom chords
d) Top chords

Answer: c
Explanation: The bottom beams are called bottom chords and are capable of bearing tension. The top chords bear compression.

2. ___________ structure is a space truss geometry inspired.
a) Quadric
b) Quadron
c) Quadror
d) Quadrangle

Answer: c
Explanation: This structure uses 4 identical L-shaped pieces which results in a trestle structure and allows flexible and versatile design. It allows for rapid assembly. It can be used as road barriers, interior column, interior partitions, etc.

3. A building can be mainly divided into how many components?
a) 2
b) 3
c) 6
d) 8

Answer: b
Explanation: The 3 components are substructure, plinth and superstructure. Anything below ground level is substructure and above it is superstructure.

4. D.P.C (Damp Proof Course) is mainly laid on:
a) Footing
b) Floor
c) Foundation
d) Plinth

Answer: d
Explanation: Plinth is a line between sub and superstructure. If D.P.C. is laid on top of plinth level, moisture penetration to the superstructure can be avoided.

5. Which of the below is constructed above doors, windows?
a) Joist
b) Purlin
c) Lintel
d) Arch

Answer: c
Explanation: Windows and doors are openings in a wall. To support the overlying bricks, a structure is built on top of the opening. It is called lintel.

6. What is the level below window called?
a) Pane level
b) Lintel level
c) Sill level
d) Plinth level

Answer: c
Explanation: The wall below window needs to support the weight of the window or opening and keep it steady. This level is called as sill level.

7. Wall is mainly of how many types?
a) 3
b) 2
c) 5
d) 6

Answer: b
Explanation: Based on the capacity of walls to carry a load, it is of 2 types. Load bearing walls and non load bearing walls are the two categories.

8. ___________ wall is used to resist lateral forces like severe wind.
a) Knee wall
b) Cavity wall
c) Infill wall
d) Shear wall

Answer: d
Explanation: Shear wall is a long continuous structure, just like that surrounding an elevator. It has excellent strength and can withstand heavy winds, earthquakes.

9. How many types of parapets are there?
a) 4
b) 2
c) 5
d) 6

Answer: a
Explanation: The 4 types are plain, perforated, panelled and embattled. Plain parapet is solid masonry, perforated has holes in different shapes, panel consists of panels joined together and in embattled, they are pierced.

10. The outer projection on the tread of a stair is:
a) Going
b) Outcrop
c) Bulge
d) Nosing

Answer: d
Explanation: A small projection is provided in the tread of a stair. Tread is the horizontal distance of one step. Nosing is the term used to describe that little projection.