Civil Engineering Professional Engineer Practice Exam

What constitutes a structure in civil engineering?

1. A movable assembly of parts

2. An arrangement of parts built to remain stable

3. A temporary construction

4. An artistic creation

The correct answer is: An arrangement of parts built to remain stable

In civil engineering, the definition of a structure centers around stability and permanence. A structure is typically an arrangement of interconnected parts designed to support loads and withstand environmental forces, ensuring safety and functionality over time. The focus on stability indicates that the structure must be engineered to perform its intended function without collapsing or experiencing significant deformation. This understanding of a structure encompasses various types of constructions such as bridges, buildings, and dams, all of which are designed to endure both static loads (like the weight of the structure itself) and dynamic loads (such as wind or seismic forces). These structures are not just assembled temporarily; they are intended for long-term use, emphasizing their role in providing safety and utility within the built environment. The other options present concepts that do not align with the fundamental qualities of what constitutes a structure in civil engineering. A movable assembly suggests elements that change position or configuration, not fitting the definition of a permanent structure. Temporary constructions, while relevant in specific contexts (such as scaffolding), do not represent the broader category of structures intended for longevity. Lastly, while artistic creations can involve structural components, they do not inherently imply the same principles of stability and load-bearing that characterize engineering structures.