NICET - Highway Construction Inspection Practice Exam

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Master the NICET Highway Construction Inspection Exam. Practice with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Prepare for your success!

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Which formula calculates the length of the curve?

L = 2πR(I / 360)
L = R * cos(I / 2)
L = R * I
L = 2 * R * tan(I)

The correct answer is: L = 2πR(I / 360)

The correct formula to calculate the length of a curve is L = 2πR(I / 360). This equation is derived from the relationship between the radius of the curve and the degree of the angle that subtends the arc. In this formula, “L” represents the length of the curve or arc, “R” is the radius of the circle that the curve is part of, and “I” stands for the angle in degrees. The term (I / 360) converts the angle into a fraction of a full circle, which is 360 degrees. Multiplying the full circumference (2πR) by this fraction gives the length of the arc corresponding to that angle. This relationship is fundamental in circular geometry and is often used in highway construction inspection to determine the lengths of curved paths on roadways and other infrastructure. Understanding and applying this formula is essential for ensuring accurate measurements during the design and inspection of roads and highways involving curves.