For special moment frame construction in California Seismic Design Category D, what is the required minimum concrete compressive strength?
Correct Answer
B) 4000 psi
CBC Section 1908.1.1 requires a minimum concrete compressive strength of 4000 psi for special moment frame construction in high seismic areas. This higher strength requirement ensures adequate performance under the cyclic loading conditions expected during major seismic events in California.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
CBC Section 1908.1.1 mandates 4000 psi minimum compressive strength for special moment frames in high-seismic areas. This elevated strength is necessary to withstand the cyclic tensile and compressive loads imposed during major seismic events, providing adequate ductility and energy dissipation capacity in the joint regions.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: 5000 psi
5000 psi exceeds the code minimum and is not required — specifying it would be overly conservative and more costly without a code basis for special moment frames.
Option C: 3000 psi
3000 psi is the general-purpose minimum for many non-seismic applications. It lacks sufficient strength for the moment-frame connections and joint shear demands imposed during earthquake loading.
Option D: 2500 psi
2500 psi is below even standard concrete strength minimums and far too weak for any seismic structural system. Modern structural concrete rarely uses compressive strengths this low.
Memory Technique
Think '4000 for D' — the letter D looks like a bold arch, and arches under seismic stress need strong concrete. Special Moment Frames demand 4000 psi in SDC D.
More trade-general-building Questions
When installing engineered lumber joists (I-joists) in California residential construction, what is the primary code requirement for web stiffeners?
What is the required attic ventilation ratio when a vapor retarder is installed on the warm-in-winter side of the ceiling according to the California Residential Code?
In California's Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) areas, which underlayment requirement applies to Class A fire-rated roof assemblies?
In California, when installing a tankless water heater in a seismic zone, what additional requirement must be met beyond standard installation practices?
According to the California Building Code (CBC), what is the minimum lap splice length for #4 rebar in a concrete foundation wall in normal weight concrete with f'c = 3000 psi?
According to CBC requirements for retaining walls in California, what additional design consideration must be addressed for retaining walls over 4 feet in height located in seismic design categories D, E, and F?
When constructing retaining walls in California that exceed 4 feet in height, which CBC requirement must be met regarding drainage?
Under California regulations, when is a reduced pressure principle (RPP) backflow prevention assembly required for a residential water service connection?
Under California Title 24, what is the minimum electrical service size required for new single-family residential construction?
According to the California Building Code, buildings located in Seismic Design Category D must comply with which specific seismic design requirements?
People Also Study
Business & Financial Management
120 questions · 70% to pass
Contract Administration
60 questions · 70% to pass
Project Management
60 questions · 70% to pass
Related Study Resources
Previous Question
What is the minimum required embedment depth for holdown anchors in concrete foundations for wood-frame shear walls in California?
Next Question
According to California building standards, what is the required stud spacing for exterior walls in residential construction using 2x4 framing members?