North Carolina Building Contractor License Practice Exam

Which of the following is a requirement for reinforcement bars in tension or compression?

1. Must be painted

2. Must be connected for yield strength

3. Must be exposed for inspection

4. Must comply with color coding

The correct answer is: Must be connected for yield strength

The requirement that reinforcement bars must be connected for yield strength is crucial for ensuring structural integrity and safety in construction. When reinforcement bars, often referred to as rebar, are used in concrete structures, they are designed to carry tensile and compressive loads. The connection of these bars in a manner that considers yield strength ensures that they can effectively work together to handle loads without failing. Yield strength refers to the maximum amount of stress that a material can withstand before it deforms permanently. When rebar is connected properly, it helps to distribute forces throughout the structure, minimizing the risk of failure due to excessive loads. This requirement is particularly important in areas subjected to dynamic loads, such as seismic activities or heavy winds, where the structural elements must work cohesively. The other choices do not address the essential engineering principles related to the performance of rebar under load. For instance, painting bars does not contribute to their structural performance; it is more about aesthetic finishes or corrosion protection, which, while important, do not pertain directly to their ability to handle tension or compression. Similarly, exposure for inspection or compliance with color coding may have regulatory or safety implications, but they are not directly related to the physical connection and performance of the rebar in a structural context.