In Critical Path Method (CPM) scheduling, what is the total float of an activity on the critical path?
Correct Answer
A) Zero
Activities on the critical path have zero total float because any delay in these activities will delay the entire project completion date. This is a fundamental principle of CPM scheduling.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Activities on the critical path have zero total float by definition because they represent the longest sequence of activities that determines the minimum project duration. Any delay in a critical path activity will directly extend the project completion date since there is no buffer time available. Total float represents the amount of time an activity can be delayed without affecting the project completion, and since critical path activities cannot be delayed without impacting the project, their total float is always zero.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option B: Equal to the longest path duration
Activity duration is the time required to complete the activity itself, which has no relationship to total float. Total float is about scheduling flexibility, not the time needed to perform the work. An activity could have a duration of 5 days but still have zero float if it's on the critical path.
Option C: Negative one day
Negative float would indicate the project is already behind schedule, but this doesn't define critical path activities. Critical path activities in a properly scheduled project have zero float, not negative float. Negative float occurs when activities are delayed beyond their latest allowable start/finish times.
More Business & Finance Questions
A general contractor purchases equipment worth $45,000 with a useful life of 9 years and no salvage value. Using straight-line depreciation, what is the annual depreciation expense?
What is the typical recommended coverage amount for general liability insurance for a small to medium-sized general contracting business?
A contractor estimates startup costs of $75,000 for equipment, $25,000 for initial inventory, $15,000 for insurance premiums, and $10,000 for working capital. They can finance 70% of the total. How much cash do they need?
When establishing professional relationships with architects and engineers, what is the most important factor for a general contractor to consider?
A partnership agreement for a construction company should address all of the following EXCEPT:
A contractor purchases a truck for $60,000. After 5 years, it has accumulated depreciation of $35,000. What is the truck's book value?
A contractor's business plan projects first-year revenue of $500,000 with a 15% net profit margin. If actual revenue is $450,000 with the same profit margin, what is the variance in net profit?
Using the Modified Accelerated Cost Recovery System (MACRS), construction equipment is typically depreciated over how many years?
A contractor is comparing financing options for equipment purchase. Option A: $80,000 cash purchase. Option B: $20,000 down, $65,000 financed at 6% for 4 years. What is the total cost of Option B?
A contractor purchases equipment using a capital lease with a present value of $120,000. How should this be recorded on the balance sheet?