Engineering Concepts Quiz

What was the name of the locomotive entered by George Stephenson in a public competition in 1829?

• The Comet

• The Rocket

• The Meteor

• The Lightning

Answer explanation

The correct answer is 'The Rocket', which was the locomotive entered by George Stephenson in the Rainhill Trials of 1829. It was a significant advancement in locomotive technology and won the competition.

What was a major issue that restricted rail commerce in Australia for over 100 years?

• Lack of rail technology

• Incompatibility between state rail gauges

• Insufficient funding

• Poor train design

Answer explanation

The major issue that restricted rail commerce in Australia for over 100 years was the incompatibility between state rail gauges. Different states used varying track widths, making it difficult for trains to operate across state lines.

What is the primary propulsion method for maglev trains?

• Diesel engines

• Magnetic repulsion

• Electric traction

• Steam engines

Answer explanation

Maglev trains primarily use magnetic repulsion for propulsion, allowing them to float above the tracks and move at high speeds without friction. This method is more efficient than traditional propulsion methods like diesel or steam.

What is the metabolic cost in the context of bicycle efficiency?

• The cost of manufacturing a bicycle

• The energy expenditure of a rider at various speeds

• The price of a modern bicycle

• The weight of the bicycle

Answer explanation

The metabolic cost refers to the energy expenditure of a rider at various speeds while cycling, making it the correct choice. It reflects how efficiently a rider uses energy during different cycling conditions.

Which feature was NOT part of the Benz Patent Motorwagen?

• Rear wheel drive

• Four-stroke engine

• Evaporative cooling

• Electric ignition system

Answer explanation

The Benz Patent Motorwagen featured rear wheel drive, a four-stroke engine, and evaporative cooling. However, it did not have an electric ignition system, which was developed later.

What is a characteristic of High Strength Low Alloy steels?

• High carbon content

• Micro-additions of elements

• Heavy weight

• Low corrosion resistance

Answer explanation

High Strength Low Alloy steels are characterized by micro-additions of elements, which enhance their strength and toughness without significantly increasing weight. This distinguishes them from other steel types.

What was a significant concern in cities due to the increased number of horses?

• Noise pollution

• Increased animal waste

• Traffic congestion

• Air pollution

Answer explanation

The significant concern in cities due to the increased number of horses was increased animal waste. With more horses, the amount of manure produced rose, leading to sanitation issues and unpleasant odors in urban areas.

Which property is important for vehicle frames to resist corrosion?

• Weldability

• Fatigue strength

• Corrosion resistance

• Impact resistance

Answer explanation

Corrosion resistance is crucial for vehicle frames as it prevents deterioration from environmental factors like moisture and salt, ensuring longevity and safety. Other properties, while important, do not directly address corrosion.

What was the original color of early tyres due to zinc oxide?

• Black

• Off-white

• Grey

• Brown

Answer explanation

Early tyres were originally made with natural rubber and zinc oxide, which gave them an off-white color. The addition of carbon black later changed their color to black, but initially, they were off-white.

What is the formula for calculating mechanical advantage (MA)?

• MA = Load / Effort

• MA = Effort / Load

• MA = Load + Effort

• MA = Load - Effort

Answer explanation

The correct formula for calculating mechanical advantage (MA) is MA = Load / Effort. This means that MA is the ratio of the load being moved to the effort applied, indicating how much a machine amplifies force.