Civil Engineering Basics

What is a primary responsibility of civil and construction engineers?

Which material is NOT commonly used in civil and construction engineering?

What ethical issue was added to the ASCE Code of Ethics in 1997?

What is a fundamental aspect that materials engineers must consider when selecting materials?

In addition to traditional criteria, what must civil engineers be knowledgeable about regarding materials?

Overview of Civil and Construction Engineering

Essential function: Providing and maintaining societal infrastructure.
Types of infrastructure include:
- Buildings
- Water treatment and distribution systems
- Wastewater removal and processing
- Dams
- Bridges and pavements for highways and airports
Civil and construction engineers primarily focus on:
- Design
- Construction
- Maintenance of facilities
Key requirement: Understanding material behavior and performance.

Role of Materials Engineers

Responsibilities include:
- Selection of appropriate materials
- Specification for specific applications
- Quality control during use
Materials must conform to established criteria or properties.
Environmental considerations have become critical in engineering practices:
- ASCE Code of Ethics updated in 1997 to address sustainable development as an ethical issue.

Commonly Used Materials in Construction

Frequently utilized materials:
- Steel
- Aggregate
- Concrete
- Masonry
- Asphalt
- Wood
Less common materials include:
- Aluminum
- Glass
- Plastics
- Fiber-reinforced composites
Understanding the characteristics and applications of these materials is essential for civil engineers.

Explore the fundamental concepts of civil and construction engineering, focusing on infrastructure development and maintenance. This quiz covers key elements such as buildings, water systems, and transportation structures. It is ideal for understanding the role of engineers in society.