The primary purpose of site investigation before construction is to
- AEstimate the project cost
- BDetermine the structural design
- CAssess soil properties and groundwater conditionsCorrect
- DFinalize the building materials
Solution
Concept
Subsurface exploration provides critical geotechnical data required for planning, designing, and constructing foundations.
Step-by-step solution
1. Understand the scope of site investigation in civil engineering projects. 2. Identify that geotechnical investigations focus on soil properties and groundwater conditions. 3. Match with the given options to find the correct statement.
Explanation
Site investigation (soil exploration) is primarily conducted to understand subsurface conditions, including soil stratigraphy, engineering properties of soil, and groundwater table levels. This information is essential for safe and economical foundation design.
Why the other options are wrong
A: Project cost estimation depends on site investigation data but is not its primary engineering purpose. B: Structural design is based on loads and material properties, which rely on soil data but isn't the direct aim of the investigation itself. D: Building materials are chosen based on structural and environmental requirements, not primarily through site soil investigation.
Shortcut
Think 'geotechnical' when you hear 'site investigation' in foundation engineering.
Common mistake
Confusing site investigation with overall project feasibility or cost estimation, which comes after or uses geotechnical data.
Correct answer: C) Assess soil properties and groundwater conditions