General Contractor Practice Exam

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How do you calculate the amount of asphalt needed in pounds for a job?

Width (in feet) x length (in feet) x depth (in inches) / 150 lb/cu ft
Width (in feet) x length (in feet) x depth (in inches) x 150 lb/cu ft
Width (in feet) x length (in feet) / depth (in inches)
Width (in feet) x length (in feet) x 200 lb/cu ft

The correct answer is: Width (in feet) x length (in feet) x depth (in inches) x 150 lb/cu ft

The calculation for the amount of asphalt needed in pounds requires an understanding of volume and density. To find the volume of asphalt needed for a job, one must multiply the width, length, and depth of the area to be covered. The measurements must be consistent, which is important for the formula's accuracy. The width and length are both in feet, while depth is typically measured in inches. To maintain consistent units, the depth must be converted to feet by dividing by 12. Thus, the volume in cubic feet can be expressed by the formula: Width (in feet) x Length (in feet) x (Depth in inches / 12). Given that asphalt has a specific weight (density) of approximately 150 pounds per cubic foot, the total weight in pounds can be computed by multiplying the volume by this density. Consequently, the correct approach to calculate the weight of asphalt is: Volume x Density = (Width x Length x Depth / 12) x 150 lb/cu ft. Thus, the chosen formula incorporates both the measurement of volume and the density of asphalt, ensuring that the result provides the weight in pounds needed for the job.