On a grading plan, if the existing grade at a point is marked as 142.5' and the proposed grade is 145.2', what is the cut or fill required?
Correct Answer
B) 2.7 feet of fill
Since the proposed grade (145.2') is higher than the existing grade (142.5'), fill material is required. The amount is 145.2 - 142.5 = 2.7 feet of fill.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
When the proposed grade elevation is higher than the existing grade elevation, fill material must be added to raise the ground level. The calculation is straightforward: subtract the existing grade from the proposed grade (145.2' - 142.5' = 2.7'). Since we're raising the elevation, this represents 2.7 feet of fill material needed. This is a fundamental concept in grading and earthwork calculations.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: 2.7 feet of cut
This option incorrectly identifies the operation as 'cut' when it should be 'fill'. Cut occurs when the proposed grade is lower than existing grade, requiring soil removal. Here, the proposed grade is higher, so material must be added (fill).
Option C: 287.7 feet of fill
This option adds the two elevations together (142.5 + 145.2 = 287.7) instead of finding the difference. This is mathematically incorrect for determining cut/fill quantities, which always requires subtraction to find the elevation difference.
Option D: No grading required
This is incorrect because there is a 2.7-foot difference between existing and proposed grades, which clearly requires grading work. Any difference between existing and proposed elevations indicates grading is needed.
Memory Technique
Use 'FILL UP, CUT DOWN' - if the proposed grade goes UP from existing, you need to FILL. If it goes DOWN, you need to CUT.
Reference Hint
Look up 'Grading Plans' and 'Earthwork Calculations' in construction management or site work chapters of contractor reference materials
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