REPORTS
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Question 21
Electrncal Job info
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question
term fot the proce
Post-te tensioni
Preparing
Prestressing
d Pretensioning
d,genetally by steel cables called tendons
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Terms
Analysis of the Generic Term for Compressing Concrete Sections
Prestressing is the generic term for the process by which a concrete section is compressed, generally by high-strength steel cables called tendons, to counteract the tensile stresses that occur when the structure is loaded.
SOLUTION STEPS:
Step 1 — Analyze Option A: Post-tensioning
Post-tensioning is a specific method of prestressing. In this process, the tendons are tensioned after the concrete has hardened. While it fits the description of using cables, it is a sub-category rather than the “generic term.”
Step 2 — Analyze Option B: Preparing
This is a general construction term referring to site readiness or material setup. It does not describe the technical engineering process of compressing concrete sections.
Step 3 — Analyze Option C: Prestressing
Prestressing is the umbrella term that encompasses any method used to introduce internal stresses into concrete before it is subjected to external loads. It specifically involves using steel tendons to compress the concrete, making it the correct “generic term” requested in the question.
Step 4 — Analyze Option D: Pre-tensioning
Similar to Option A, Pre-tensioning is a specific technique where the tendons are tensioned before the concrete is poured. It is a type of prestressing, but it does not represent the entire category of the process.
Step 5 — Option Comparison
A. Post-tensioning — A specific method (tensioned after curing).
B. Preparing — Irrelevant general term.
C. Prestressing — The correct generic term for the entire process.
D. Pre-tensioning — A specific method (tensioned before pouring).
Step 6 — Final Verification
In structural engineering, the field is defined as Prestressed Concrete. Since the question asks for the “generic term” that covers the compression of concrete via tendons, Prestressing is the only term that serves as the root category for both pre-tensioning and post-tensioning.
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ANSWER: c. Prestressing
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KEY CONCEPTS:
1. Tendons
- Definition: High-strength steel wires, cables, or bars used to apply pressure to concrete.
- In this problem: They are the primary tool used to achieve the compression mentioned in the prompt.
2. Tensile Strength
- Definition: The ability of a material to resist pulling forces.
- In this problem: Concrete is strong in compression but weak in tension; Prestressing compensates for this weakness.
COMMON MISTAKES:
Choosing a sub-type
- Wrong: Selecting “Post-tensioning” because you are familiar with that specific job site activity.
- Right: Selecting “Prestressing” as it is the broad academic and professional term for all such activities.
- Why it’s wrong: The question asks for the generic term, not a specific application method.
Would you like me to explain the specific differences between pre-tensioning and post-tensioning techniques?
Write only the answer to my question. Do not write a long explanation; write only the answers, the correct answers.
ANSWER: c. Prestressing