GATE AG 2012 • Q4 MCQ • 1 Mark

Section 3: Farm Power

Tractors and Power Tillers

Subtopic: Traction theory

Question Statement:

Which one of the following statements is NOT appropriate regarding cone index:

Options:

  • (A) It reflects strength of soil
  • (B) It is a composite parameter
  • (C) It is dimensionless
  • (D) It is measured at a constant penetration rate of 30 mm/s

Official Answer Key:

C

Step-by-Step Solution & Explanation

Cone Index (CI) is the force per unit base area of the cone penetrometer, expressed in units of pressure (kPa or psi) — it is NOT dimensionless. It is a composite index reflecting soil strength, and ASAE standards specify a penetration rate of ~30 mm/s. Answer: C — the false statement.

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