Lime MCQ with answer and solution

Concept

High water retention capacity of lime prevents rapid drying, thereby minimizing shrinkage and cracking in lime mortars and plasters.

Step-by-step solution

1. Understand the properties of building lime. 2. Identify that lime retains water effectively within its matrix. 3. Relate high water retention to slow, uniform drying. 4. Conclude that slow drying minimizes shrinkage and cracking.

Explanation

Lime possesses a high water retention capacity, which allows it to hold moisture longer and dry out slowly and evenly. This gradual loss of moisture prevents rapid volume changes and cracking, resulting in very low shrinkage.

Why the other options are wrong

A: Low dry shrinkage is an observation/effect, not the underlying cause. C: Low water retention would cause rapid drying and high shrinkage. D: High dry shrinkage is incorrect since lime actually exhibits low shrinkage.

Shortcut

Remember: High water retention in lime = slow drying = low shrinkage.

Common mistake

Confusing cause and effect; low dry shrinkage is the result, while high water retention is the underlying property causing it.