Which statement about concrete is true regarding its strength characteristics?

Concrete is fundamentally a composite material that exhibits distinct strengths under different types of loading. The statement regarding its strength characteristics highlights that concrete is weak in tension. This is due to its inherent properties; while concrete can bear significant loads in compression, its tensile strength is relatively low.

This weakness in tension is primarily a consequence of how concrete is composed of aggregates and cement. When forces are applied in tension, cracks can easily propagate through the concrete, leading to its failure before reaching tensile strength capacity. Therefore, in structural design and analysis, concrete is typically reinforced with materials such as steel, which has high tensile strength, to compensate for this limitation.

Understanding this characteristic is crucial for concrete inspectors and engineers since it informs the design choices and the application of reinforcement techniques in various construction efforts. It's essential to recognize that while concrete can withstand a lot of compressive forces, its performance under tension is a critical factor that must be taken into account to ensure structural integrity.