North Carolina Building Contractor License Practice Exam

Which type of maintenance is critical for a well-maintained pitcher’s mound?

1. Regular watering

2. Frequent foot traffic

3. Consistent soil compaction

4. Periodic aeration

The correct answer is: Consistent soil compaction

Consistent soil compaction is critical for maintaining a well-structured and functional pitcher's mound. Proper compaction helps to ensure that the mound maintains its shape and stability, which is essential for safe and effective gameplay. When the soil is adequately compacted, it minimizes the risk of uneven surfaces that could lead to injury for pitchers and affect their performance. Additionally, a well-compacted mound can better withstand the impact of the repeated footfalls of players during practices and games, preventing the ground from becoming overly soft or unstable. This stability is crucial, as a pitcher requires a solid footing to generate the necessary force and precision when delivering pitches. On the other hand, regular watering, while helpful for maintaining soil moisture, does not ensure the structural integrity of the mound. Frequent foot traffic can lead to compaction, but it’s the intentional and consistent compaction that is most effective for mound maintenance. Periodic aeration is more commonly used to relieve compaction rather than maintain it in the context of a pitcher's mound. Understanding the importance of soil compaction helps in creating a safe and effective environment for pitchers, making it a fundamental aspect of mound maintenance.