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Class B TradePlanning & Estimatingmedium14% of exam part

A utility trench cut measures 45 feet in run, 2.5 feet in bottom width, and 3 feet deep. What bank excavation volume is shown before swell?

Correct Answer

C) 12.5 cubic yards.

The trench volume is 45 x 2.5 x 3 = 337.5 cubic feet. Dividing by 27 gives 12.5 cubic yards.

Answer Options
A
10.5 cubic yards.
B
11.25 cubic yards.
C
12.5 cubic yards.
D
13.75 cubic yards.

Why This Is the Correct Answer

The trench volume is 45 x 2.5 x 3 = 337.5 cubic feet. Dividing by 27 gives 12.5 cubic yards.

Why the Other Options Are Wrong

Option A: 10.5 cubic yards.

10.5 cubic yards. is below the supported result for excavation takeoff; it likely uses the wrong base, period, or account bucket.

Option B: 11.25 cubic yards.

11.25 cubic yards. is below the supported result for excavation takeoff; it likely uses the wrong base, period, or account bucket.

Option D: 13.75 cubic yards.

13.75 cubic yards. is above the supported result for excavation takeoff; it likely adds an unsupported amount or compares the wrong financial base.

Memory Technique

Excavation Takeoff drawer for Estimating Utility: label trench before counting dollars.

Reference Hint

Study anchor (closed-book): memorize Excavation takeoff from CSLB B General Building Study Guide; California Building Code, Title. / Title 24 California Building Code sitework quantity concepts; know the rule or calculation trigger without relying on exam-room lookup.

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