Coastal and Floodplain Construction Inspector's Practice Exam

What structural components must piles resist due to wind and water loads?

1. Earthquake forces and corrosion

2. Floatation, collapse, and lateral movement

3. Rotting and thermal expansion

4. Heavy snowfall and vibration

The correct answer is: Floatation, collapse, and lateral movement

Piles are critical structural components in coastal and floodplain construction, primarily designed to provide stability and support against various loads. When considering wind and water loads, it is essential that piles are capable of resisting forces that could cause flotation, collapse, or lateral movement. Flotation is a concern in areas prone to flooding or high water levels, where a buoyant force may act on the structure, potentially causing it to rise or move. Collapse refers to the structural integrity of the piles; they must be strong enough to withstand the vertical and lateral forces imposed by wind and wave action. Lateral movement is particularly relevant during storms or high winds, as waves can exert sideways pressure on the piles, leading to potential displacement or failure if not properly designed. The other options, while relevant to various structural concerns, do not directly correlate to the primary structural loads piles must resist due to wind and water. Earthquake forces and corrosion may affect some structures, but they are not the primary factors of concern for piles in coastal areas during extreme weather or flooding events. Similarly, rotting and thermal expansion can be issues in different contexts but do not address the immediate structural load concerns associated with wind and water. Heavy snowfall and vibration are also less relevant to pile behavior in flood-pr