Which of the following methods of road construction suggested that heavy foundation stones are not at all necessary to be placed at the bottom of the construction?
- AMetcalf Construction
- BTresaguet Construction
- CMacadam ConstructionCorrect
- DTelford Construction
Solution
Concept
Macadam road construction principles
Formula
NONE
Step-by-step solution
1. Roman, Tresaguet, and Telford road construction methods all utilized large, heavy foundation stones at the base. 2. John Macadam was the first to eliminate large foundation stones, relying on a well-compacted subgrade and interlocking layers of smaller crushed stone. 3. Therefore, Macadam construction suggested heavy foundation stones are unnecessary. Answer: C
Explanation
Macadam was the pioneer who introduced the concept that heavy foundation stones are not required at the bottom of the road pavement. He recognized that properly drained and compacted subgrade soil possesses sufficient bearing capacity to support traffic loads transmitted through smaller broken aggregate layers.
Why the other options are wrong
A) Metcalf provided road improvements in England but maintained foundation stones. B) Tresaguet used heavy boulder stones laid on edge at the subgrade. D) Telford used heavy stones of 17-22 cm height as the foundation base.
Shortcut
Macadam = NO large foundation stones; load supported by drained/compacted subgrade.
Common mistake
Confusing Macadam with Tresaguet or Telford, who both used heavy foundation stones at the bottom.
Correct answer: C) Macadam Construction