2.1.1 - Engineering Roles and Functions

What is the primary focus of civil engineering?

• Design and construction of infrastructure

• Design and manufacturing of vehicles

• Production of goods

• Study of water resources

Answer explanation

The primary focus of civil engineering is the design and construction of infrastructure, which includes roads, bridges, and buildings, making it essential for societal development and functionality.

Which subcategory of civil engineering involves the study and management of water resources?

• Hydraulic Engineering

• Geotechnical Engineering

• Architectural Engineering

• Automotive Engineering

Answer explanation

Hydraulic Engineering is the subcategory of civil engineering that focuses on the study and management of water resources, including the design of systems for water supply, drainage, and flood control.

Geotechnical engineers study (a)   to support structures.

• Soil and rock mechanics

• Water resources

• Vehicle efficiency

• Production processes

Answer explanation

Geotechnical engineers focus on soil and rock mechanics to ensure the stability and safety of structures. This field is essential for understanding how these materials behave under various conditions.

Match the following fields of engineering with their areas of focus.

• Flow and conveyance of fluids, especially water

• Hydraulic Engineering

• Behavior of earth materials and foundations

• Geotechnical Engineering

• Design and construction of infrastructure like roads and bridges

• Mechanical Engineering

• Design, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems

• Civil Engineering

What do manufacturing engineers focus on?

• Processes used to produce goods

• Design of buildings

• Study of soil mechanics

• Design of water systems

Answer explanation

Manufacturing engineers primarily focus on the processes used to produce goods. This involves optimizing production methods, improving efficiency, and ensuring quality in manufacturing operations.

What is the primary focus of thermal engineering?

• Designing aircraft and spacecraft

• Heat transfer and thermal systems

• Chemical reactions and production methods

• Electrical power generation and distribution

Answer explanation

The primary focus of thermal engineering is on heat transfer and thermal systems, which involves the study and application of energy transfer in various forms, crucial for designing efficient heating and cooling systems.

Which subcategory of chemical engineering involves the extraction and production of oil and gas?

• Materials Engineering

• Process Engineering

• Petroleum Engineering

• Control Engineering

Answer explanation

Petroleum Engineering is the subcategory of chemical engineering focused on the extraction and production of oil and gas, making it the correct choice among the options provided.

What do materials engineers primarily study and develop?

• Electrical systems and components

• Communication networks

• Metals, polymers, and ceramics

• Aircraft and spacecraft

Answer explanation

Materials engineers primarily study and develop metals, polymers, and ceramics, focusing on their properties and applications in various industries, making this the correct choice.

What is the main responsibility of power engineers?

• Designing aircraft

• Managing dynamic processes

• Generating, transmitting, and distributing electrical power

• Developing chemical processes

Answer explanation

Power engineers are primarily responsible for generating, transmitting, and distributing electrical power, which is essential for providing energy to homes and industries. This distinguishes them from other engineering fields.

Which engineering field focuses on the design and development of aircraft and spacecraft?

• Chemical Engineering

• Electrical Engineering

• Aerospace and Aeronautical Engineering

• Thermal Engineering

Answer explanation

Aerospace and Aeronautical Engineering specifically focuses on the design and development of aircraft and spacecraft, making it the correct choice among the options provided.