North Carolina Building Contractor License Practice Exam

Which tool is commonly used to measure soil bearing capacity?

1. A tape measure

2. A penetrometer

3. A level

4. A soil auger

The correct answer is: A penetrometer

The penetrometer is a specialized tool designed specifically to assess soil bearing capacity, making it the correct choice for this question. It measures the resistance of soil to penetration, providing critical data on how well the soil can support structures. When conducting a site analysis or preparing for construction, understanding the soil's bearing capacity is essential for ensuring stability and safety. In contrast, a tape measure is primarily used for measuring distances rather than assessing soil characteristics. A level helps determine horizontal alignment and does not provide information about soil properties. Similarly, while a soil auger is useful for obtaining soil samples, it does not measure bearing capacity directly. The penetrometer provides direct measurements that can inform decisions about the suitable types and sizes of foundations to use based on the soil's ability to bear weight.