Which of the following reinforced concrete structure is commonly used to keep the earth in vertical and stable position at locations where the ground level changes abruptly?
- ASlab
- BRetaining wallCorrect
- CColumn
- DBeam
Solution
Concept
A retaining wall holds back earth where the ground level changes suddenly. It resists the lateral earth pressure.
Step-by-step solution
1. Where the ground level changes suddenly, the soil on the higher side pushes sideways. 2. A structure is needed to keep this earth vertical and stable against the lateral pressure. 3. This structure is a retaining wall. Answer is B.
Explanation
A retaining wall is built to hold earth or other material at a steep or vertical face. It resists the lateral earth pressure from the higher ground. Slabs, columns and beams do not do this job.
Why the other options are wrong
A: A slab is a flat member that carries floor or roof loads. C: A column carries axial compressive load from beams and slabs. D: A beam carries transverse loads by bending.
Shortcut
Earth held at a sudden change in level means a retaining wall.
Correct answer: B) Retaining wall