Strength of concrete shows an increase with _________.
- ADecrease in rate of loading
- BIncrease in rate of loadingCorrect
- CUnaffected by the rate of loading
- DNone of the above
Solution
Concept
Effect of Rate of Loading on Concrete Strength
Formula
No formula
Step-by-step solution
This is a conceptual question and requires no mathematical calculation.1. Recall that higher rates of loading give concrete less time to undergo creep or microcracking. 2. Therefore, as the rate of loading increases, the observed compressive strength of concrete increases (Option B).
Explanation
When load is applied rapidly to concrete, the material has less time to undergo creep or develop microcracks. As a result, the concrete resists the load better, showing a higher measured compressive strength.
Shortcut
Fast Loading = Fast Strength (Faster rate of loading gives higher measured strength).
Common mistake
Many students mistakenly select "Unaffected by the rate of loading" (Option C) because they assume concrete strength is a fixed material property regardless of loading speed.
Correct answer: B) Increase in rate of loading