If in a concrete mix the fineness modulus of coarse aggregate is 7.6, the fineness modulus of the fine aggregate is 2.8 and the economical value of the fineness modulus of combined aggregate is 6.4, then the proportion of fine aggregate is
- A25%Correct
- B33 1/3 %
- C50%
- D66 2/3 %
Solution
Concept
Fineness Modulus of Combined Aggregates
Formula
P = [(Fcoarse - Fcombined) / (Fcoarse - Ffine)] × 100
Step-by-step solution
1. Identify given values: F\_coarse = 7.6, F\_fine = 2.8, F\_combined = 6.4. 2. Calculate numerator: 7.6 - 6.4 = 1.2. 3. Calculate denominator: 7.6 - 2.8 = 4.8. 4. Calculate proportion: (1.2 / 4.8) \* 100 = 25%.
Explanation
To find the percentage of fine aggregate (P), use the formula: P = [(Fcoarse - Fcombined) / (Fcoarse - Ffine)] × 100 Substituting the given values: - Fineness modulus of coarse aggregate (F\_coarse) = 7.6 - Fineness modulus of fine aggregate (F\_fine) = 2.8 - Fineness modulus of combined aggregate (F\_combined) = 6.4P = \[(7.6 - 6.4) / (7.6 - 2.8)\] × 100 P = (1.2 / 4.8) × 100 = 25% Therefore, 25% fine aggregate is required in the mixture.
Shortcut
Use the Allegation Rule or remember: Fine % = (Difference between Coarse and Combined) / (Difference between Coarse and Fine) × 100. Quick step:1. Top = 7.6 - 6.4 = 1.2 2. Bottom = 7.6 - 2.8 = 4.8 3. 1.2 / 4.8 = 1/4 = 25%
Common mistake
A common mistake is inverting the formula by putting the difference between combined and fine aggregate in the numerator instead of coarse and combined, which leads to calculating the proportion of coarse aggregate (75% or 66 2/3%) rather than the fine aggregate.
Correct answer: A) 25%
