Join 60,000+ competitive exam aspirants
Which of the following is used on highway and railway where it is necessary to change direction of motion?
Slope
Curve
Curb
None of these
Curve
Quick Trick: Remember that 'Change of direction' in transportation engineering always points to Curves (horizontal or vertical), while slopes manage elevation and curbs define boundaries.
Remember that 'Change of direction' in transportation engineering always points to Curves (horizontal or vertical), while slopes manage elevation and curbs define boundaries.
Analyze the functional requirement
The question asks for the geometric feature responsible for altering the directional movement of vehicles on roads or railways.
Evaluate highway and railway alignment elements
Slope (gradient) provides a change in vertical elevation ┬╖ Curb provides a side boundary or physical border between the road and sidewalk ┬╖ Curve provides a gradual transition when changing the horizontal or vertical direction of motion.
A: Slope is used to manage vertical gradient or elevation changes, not direction ┬╖ C: Curb is an edge border between a pavement and a shoulder/sidewalk ┬╖ D: None of these is incorrect because Curve (Option B) directly satisfies the requirement.
B is correct because curves are specifically designed to enable a smooth, gradual change in direction for vehicles on roads and tracks.
Questions on alignment features frequently test functional definitions: Curves change direction, Gradients change elevation, and Curbs define lateral edges.