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Free PE Civil Transportation- Depth Exam Sample

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Free PE Civil Transportation-
Depth Exam Sample
2022
By: Omid M. Rouhani, PhD
© Copyright 2022, Omid M. Rouhani. All rights
reserved.
DO NOT distribute/copy/publish without the consent
of the author

1
Introduction:
I passed the October-2021 PE-Civil-Paper exam and decided to share my experience. In this
book, you can find the closest tests to what was in the exam. The book includes three sections:
(1) brief bullet points regarding the best strategies to take the exam, (2) one practice exam
(Transportation PM), and (3) the exam solution.
IF YOU NEED MORE PRACTICE EXAMS, PLEASE CONTACT ME VIA:
[email protected]

2
1) Strategies:
First and most important strategy: GO OVER THE SPECIFIED NCEES TOPICS. The exam
will be mainly on the specified topics. For the most recent version, see:
- For transportation: https://ncees.org/wp-content/uploads/Civ-Tran-April-2022_r1.pdf
- For structure: https://ncees.org/wp-content/uploads/Civ-Str-April-2022_r2.pdf
- For construction: https://ncees.org/wp-content/uploads/Civ-Con-April-2022_r1.pdf
- For geotechnical: https://ncees.org/wp-content/uploads/Civ-Geo-April-2022_r1.pdf
- For water: https://ncees.org/wp-content/uploads/Civ-WRE-April-2022_r1.pdf
- For general information: https://ncees.org/engineering/pe/civil-cbt/.
Depending on your money/time availability, I offer the following recommendations:
➢ How much time you have?
I. One month:
✓ Focus on one/two subjects from the NCEES Topics (above links) that you are
relatively unfamiliar with, not completely. You do not have time to work on
your strengths or your weakest points.
✓ At least, take one practice exam per section (morning/afternoon). CONTACT
ME ([email protected]) IF YOU NEED MORE PRACTICE EXAMS.
II. Two to three months:
✓ Study most of the NCEES topics that will be in the exam (see the above links).
✓ Focus on the subject (structure, construction, etc.) that you are taking the
afternoon exam in.
✓ Study your weakest point/subject, only if you are on schedule, relatively early.
As time passes by, it becomes more difficult to study an unfamiliar subject.
✓ Take 3 to 4 practice exams per section (morning/afternoon). CONTACT ME
([email protected]) IF YOU NEED MORE PRACTICE EXAMS.
III. More than three months:
✓ Study all the NCEES topics that will be in the exam (see the above links).
✓ Work on your weakest point/subject. Begin with the subject since with time,
you get nervous and it becomes more difficult to study a new unfamiliar
subject.
✓ Focus on the PM-exam topics. Buy as many books as possible. Many tests
could be answered by simply looking up the subject in a book.
✓ Review the PE handbook and its topics. When you register for the exam, on
your dashboard, you will be able to download and review it.
✓ Take as many practice exams as you can. CONTACT ME
([email protected]) IF YOU NEED MORE PRACTICE EXAMS.

3
 Take notes of important mistakes/tests so that you can review those later on, a
few days before the exam.
✓ The focus in the final week(s) before the exam should be on reviewing
subjects/tests.
➢ How much money you would like to spend?
I. If money is not an issue:
o You might want to register for the NCEES classes.
o BUY ALL THE NECESSARY BOOKS. It is much easier to own those books
in order to study them thoroughly, even if you take the computer-based exam.
o Find/buy at least two practice exams per section (morning/afternoon).
CONTACT ME ([email protected]) FOR MORE EXAMS.
o BUY THE NCEES PRACTICE EXAM from their website.

II. If you cannot spend a lot of money:

o BUY A FEW BOOKS (even if you are taking the computer-based exam).
Definitely buy the following books/documents for the PM exam: 1) AASHTO
GREEN BOOK, 2) MANUAL ON UNIFORM TRAFFIC CONTROL
DEVICES (MUTCD), and 3) HIGHWAY CAPACITY MANUAL. Potentially
buy: 1) AASHTO guide for the design of pavement structures, 2) AASHTO
guide for planning, design, and operation of pedestrian facilities, 3) Highway
Safety Manual, 4) AASHTO roadside design guide, and 5) PCA Design and
control of concrete mixtures.
o CONTACT ME ([email protected]) FOR MORE PRACTICE EXAMS.

➢ During exam:
❖ The exam is 4 hours (40 tests) per section. USE A SHORT TIME (perhaps
less than 60 seconds) TO RELAX/EAT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE EXAM.
Remember that overall, it is a marathon (8 hours) rather than a sprint.
❖ KEEP TRACK OF TIME.
❖ DO NOT SPEND A LOT OF TIME ON ONE TEST! Move on then come
back again if needed.
❖ Most practice exams could take longer than 6 minutes per test. NCEES tests,
however, usually do not take long and needs less calculations. Rather, the tests
are about knowing a general concept/topic, being familiar with a
book/guideline, being able to search for topics using the glossary/index
sections of the books you use for the exam, etc.
❖ Remember that YOU CANNOT USE A SMART WATCH. ALSO, SOME
CALCULATORS ARE NOT ALLWOED. Carefully read the NCEES
regulations: https://ncees.org/exams/examinee-guide/

4
❖ One of the most important common mistakes is to forget to check the
consistency of units in an equation/answer.
❖ Pack your lunch to save time going around to buy one.
❖ The general rule of thumb is that you need about 70% correct answers to pass
the exam, but this varies depending on the exam.
❖ Refer to one example of a more comprehensive document about the exam
strategies; the PE-CE strategy slides (though some parts might be outdated):
https://www.scribd.com/document/119368660/PE-CE-StrategySlides

5
2) Civil-Transportation Exam
1- A one-lane approach is used by 2,100 vehicles per hour. With the averages speed of 35 mph and the
𝑠𝑒𝑐 𝑓𝑡
average vehicle length of 21 ft, the headway (𝑣𝑒ℎ) and the average distance between vehicles (𝑣𝑒ℎ) are
most nearly:
𝑠𝑒𝑐 𝑓𝑡
A. 1.7 𝑣𝑒ℎ , 42 𝑣𝑒ℎ
𝑠𝑒𝑐 𝑓𝑡
B. 3.2 , 52
𝑣𝑒ℎ 𝑣𝑒ℎ
𝑠𝑒𝑐 𝑓𝑡
C. 1.7 𝑣𝑒ℎ , 67 𝑣𝑒ℎ
𝑠𝑒𝑐 𝑓𝑡
D. 3.2 𝑣𝑒ℎ , 38 𝑣𝑒ℎ

6
2- The following information is collected for an intersection:
52 crashes per 6 years
A crash rate of 0.7 per million entering vehicles
The ADT (volume) entering the intersection is most nearly:
A. 34,000
B. 21,500
C. 7,000
D. 2,000

7
3- A travel demand model is calibrated as follows:
T = 18 + 1.4 P + 2.3 V + 0.1 I
where:
T = the monthly number of auto trips per household
P = the number of persons in each household
V = the number of vehicles owned by each household
I = the total income of the household (in thousand dollars)
For a traffic zone with 2,200 households and the average per household values of 2.3 persons, 1.9
vehicles, $95,000 of total income, the total number of auto trips per month is most nearly:
A. 21,000
B. 77,000
C. 150,100
D. 1,600,000

8
4- A convention center hosts an event with 10,000 attending. A dedicated pedestrian walkway is designed
from the center to the metro station, with an effective width of 25 ft. Based on the following information:
(1) 80% of the center is emptied in the first hour after the event,
(2) PHF is 0.9,
(3) the metro-mode choice from all travel is 25%, and
(4) the random-flow-arrival assumption.
The peak flow rate (ped/min/ft) and the level of service of the walkway during the first hour are:
A. 3.8, LOS A
B. 1.5, LOS A
C. 2.4, LOS D
D. 7.7, LOS D

9
5- Which of the following factors will NOT require an adjustment in the base saturation flow of a
signalized urban segment’s lane group?

A. Existence of heavy vehicles

B. Inclusion of left-turn with protected phasing
C. A heavy pedestrian flow
D. PHF of 0.92

10
6- A single-server toll collection system handles an average of 2000 vehicles per hour. With the arrival
rate of 1400 vehicles per hour, the average time spent waiting in the queue (seconds per vehicle) is most
nearly:
A. 1.6
B. 4.2
C. 15.1
D. 45.5

11
7- A car weighing 1.2 tons travels at 60 mph and hits a barrel weighing 750 lb. The car’s instant speed
after the elastic crash (impact) is most nearly:
A. 45
B. 40
C. 35
D. 30

12
8- In an intersection, 35% of pedestrians are elderly, and the grade is 15%. The recommended walking
speed (ft/sec) is most nearly:
A. 3
B. 3.3
C. 4
D. 4.3

13
9- For the traffic counts shown in the below table, the peak hour factor (PHF) is most nearly:

A. 0.2 Interval Volume

4:45-5:00 PM 990
B. 0.8 5:00-5:15 PM 870
C. 0.95 5:15-5:30 PM 670
5:30-5:45 PM 640
D. 1.21

14
10- A four-lane freeway has the following characteristics:
PHF = 0.9
Directional traffic volume = 2,700 vph
Average speed= 55 mph
6% truck
3% bus
Level terrain
The LOS for the freeway is most nearly:
A. LOS B
B. LOS C
C. LOS D
D. LOS F

15
11- A traffic impact study assessed a new mall’s construction in the location below and found that:
- The new mall will generate 300 new trips hourly.
- 60% of new trips will travel Westbound while the rest will travel Eastbound
- The existing number of hourly trips are: Westbound 2,200, Eastbound 2,100

Mall

The total number of vehicles traveling Westbound after the mall construction will be most nearly:
A. 2,100
B. 2,200
C. 2,250
D. 2,375

16
12- A proposed horizontal design is specified as:
D (degree of curve) = 5°
I (deflection angle) = 11°45ˊ
Point of intersection’s station = 11 + 50.00
The station of point of curvature is:
A. 10 + 32
B. 10 + 89
C. 11 + 19
D. 11 + 95

17
13- A horizontal circular curve’s point of curvature is located at coordinates 4223.6 N, 1057.3 W (ft) and
has the following characteristics:
- A curve radius of 1100 ft,
- The length of curve = 647 ft, and
- The tangent at PC bearing of S42°45′W.
The coordinates of the PI are most nearly:
A. 3979 N, 1290 W
B. 3899 N, 1211 W
C. 4370 N, 839 W
D. 3979 N, 1284 W

18
14- A 280-ft spiral curve is designed as a transition to a 21-degree-deflection and a 900-ft-radius circular
curve. The PI is stationed at 221+00. The spiral offset from initial angle (ft) is most nearly:
A. 3.6
B. 7.9
C. 11.1
D. 19.4

19
15- A two-lane highway has a horizontal curve with a radius of 905 ft (centerline) and the curve length of
600 ft. Obstructions are located 20 ft from the edge of the highway (outside). Considering a lane width of
10 ft and assuming a level grade, the safe design speed (mph) based on adequate sight distance is most
nearly:

A. 45
B. 50
C. 55
D. 60
20 ft

obstruction

20
16- A sag vertical curve connects grades of -5% to 4.5%. With a speed limit of 45 mph, the curve length
(ft) required for stopping sight distance is most nearly:
A. 365
B. 700
C. 740
D. 940

21
17- A crest vertical curve’ features are shown in the figure. The station of the PVT is most nearly:
A. 44 + 06.00
B. 41 + 92.00
C. 41 + 23.00 PVI or V
Station 42+65
D. 40 + 75.00 Elevation 447 ft

L=1600 ft
PVT or G2= - 3.5%
PVC or BVC
G1= + 5% EVC

22
18- With the following information for a vertical-sag curve:
- For a 65-mph four-lane highway;
- object’s height of 5 ft;
- eye’s height of 9 ft; and
- a 2100-ft long curve with a difference in grade of 7%.
The passing sight distance (ft) for an overhead bridge that passes over at a vertical clearance of 18 ft is
most nearly:
A. 980
B. 1,625
C. 2,170
D. 4,385

23
19- A crest vertical curve is designed as shown. The elevation of the PVT (ft) is most nearly:
A. 250
B. 300
C. 350 PVI
Station 123+65
D. 400 Elevation 321 ft

PVC PVT G2= - 4%

G1= + 6%
Station 117+50.00

24
20- The minimum number of primary signal faces for a through 3-lane approach with a speed limit of 50
mph is:
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 4

25
21- A roundabout is designed with the following features:
Desirable speed of 25 mph
Inscribed circle diameter of 200 ft
Service volume of 25,000
The recommended roundabout type is:

A. Mini-roundabout
B. Single-lane roundabout
C. Multi-lane roundabout
D. Modern roundabout

26
22- A 4-leg stop-controlled intersection has one lane per approach in each direction with a design speed
of 40 mph for the major direction. The minor-road approach is a 5% upgrade. The minimum sight
distance (ft) for a combination truck turning right from a minor street is most nearly:
A. 26 ft
B. 391 ft
C. 540 ft
D. 647 ft

27
23- A vehicle travels on a 3% upgrade at 50 mph. The braking distance (ft) for the vehicle is most nearly:
A. 221
B. 315
C. 426
D. 507

28
24- A freeway ramp is designed as:
Barrier curb on one side
Traffic consists predominantly of passenger vehicles, some consideration for SU trucks
One-lane one-way operation with no passing provision
Radius on inner edge of the pavement 150 ft
The pavement width (ft) for the ramp is most nearly:

A. 3.9
B. 14
C. 15
D. 19

29
25- A rural collector road on a rolling terrain is under design consideration. If the design speed is 35 mph
and the AADT is 1500, the maximum allowed grade (%) is:
A. 11
B. 9
C. 8
D. 7

30
26- A single-lane (12-ft width) approach enters a work zone with a speed limit of 55 mph. There is a lane
closure with the additional 2 ft required for channelization. The minimum shifting taper length (ft) is most
nearly:
A. 770
B. 650
C. 545
D. 385

31
27- One-lane operation, no provision for passing a stalled vehicle, is designed to accommodate a WB-62
truck. The required traveled-way width (ft) for a 75-ft-radius curve is most nearly:
A. 2.5
B. 12.5
C. 30
D. 150

32
28- A signalized intersection segment with one-lane has the following characteristics:
4-sec clearance time including all red time,
30-sec green time out of 95-sec cycle length,
Start-up lost time of 1.6 sec per phase,
Clearance lost time of 1 sec per phase, and
Saturation headway of 2.5 sec/vehicle.
The capacity (vehicle per hour) for this segment is most nearly:
A. 475
B. 585
C. 1,110
D. 1,840

33
29- For a signal located 45 ft from an intersection, the maximum height of the top of signal housing from
the pavement is most nearly (ft):
A. 25.1
B. 24.4
C. 23.7
D. 22.8

34
30- A four-lane major street intersects with a two-lane minor street. The below table shows the observed
peak 8-hour traffic on an average day. According to the MUTCD, which 8-hour-warrant conditions are
met?
Total Higher-
A. Condition A only Interval volume on volume on
major minor
B. Condition B only 5:00-6:00 AM 150 50
C. Both conditions A and B 6:00-7:00 AM 420 70
D. Neither conditions 7:00-8:00 AM 950 260
8:00-9:00 AM 610 210
9:00-10:00 AM 410 140
10:00-11:00 AM 370 150
11:00-12:00 AM 450 170
12:00-1:00 PM 720 230
1:00- 2:00 PM 650 220
2:00- 3:00 PM 510 210
3:00- 4:00 PM 690 240
4:00- 5:00 PM 730 280
5:00- 6:00 PM 1190 320
7:00- 8:00 PM 650 160

35
31- A ground-mounted stop sign is designed in an urban rail-road crossing area on a separate sign. The
vertical and horizontal distances (locations) of the stop sign from the edge of the traveled way are,
respectively:
A. 5 ft and 6 ft
B. 7 ft and 2 ft
C. 5 ft and 12 ft
D. 5 ft and 9 ft

36
32- The delineator spacing (in ft) for a horizontal curve of 4° is most nearly:
A. 86
B. 89
C. 112
D. 94

37
33- A “turn” warning sign with an advisory speed of 30 mph is designed on a road with a speed limit of
50 mph. The distance in advance (ft) that the sign should be placed is most nearly:
A. 125
B. 175
C. 200
D. 250

38
34- Which following answer DOES NOT match its description:
A. The standard penetration test (SPT) provides an indirect measurement of the relative density for
cohesionless soils.
B. The modified proctor test is used to determine the maximum dry density of a compacted soil.
C. The California bearing ratio test determines the shear strength of different soil types.
D. The Atterberg limit test provides water contents corresponding to transitions between solid, plastic,
and liquid states of a clayey soil.

39
35- Several samples with varying moisture content are used for a standard proctor test, as shown in the
table below. The maximum dry unit weight (lb/ft3) is most nearly:

Sample Weight Moisture

A. 86 (lb) content
(%)
B. 89
1 3.1 10%
C. 111 2 3.4 12%
3 3.5 15%
D. 94 4 3.7 18%
5 4.1 21%

40
36- Two trucks impose axle loads as shown below for the terminal serviceability index of 2.5 and
pavement structural number of 4 (flexible pavement). The ratio of pavement damage from truck B over
those from truck A is most nearly:
A. 16
B. 9
C. 5
D. 3

41
37- Which of the following does define the general relationship between the lateral earth strains?
A. The soil passive pressure’s lateral strain is at least half of the soil active pressure’s lateral strain.
B. The soil passive pressure’s lateral strain is less than the soil active pressure’s lateral strain.
C. The soil passive pressure’s lateral strain is equal to the soil active pressure’s lateral strain.
D. The soil passive pressure’s lateral strain is at least twice the soil active pressure’s lateral strain.

42
38- The unit hydrograph is estimated by the following table:

Time (hour) 0 1 2 3 4 5
3
Discharge Q (ft /sec/inch) 0 50 85 125 50 0

A storm produces the excess precipitation of 1.1 in. during the first hour, followed by 2.5 in. during the
second hour. The stream discharge (ft 3 /sec) at the end of the third hour is most nearly:
A. 155
B. 210
C. 350
D. 185

43
39- A 32-in.-diameter concrete culvert operates under inlet control. The following information is given:
Upstream Elevation: 221.0 ft
Downstream Elevation: 220.5 ft
Entrance type: Groove end with headwall
Length: 155 ft
Roadway elevation: 239 ft
Design flow rate: 90 cfs
The required vertical clearance (ft) between the roadway and the design flood elevation is most nearly:
A. 5.2
B. 8.4
C. 9.7
D. 11.8

44
40- A public fund of $3 million is established for a 10-year project. If the fund yields 4% interest
annually, the fund value at the end of the project term will be most nearly:
A. $2.5 million
B. $3 million
C. $4.5 million
D. $7.9 million

45
3) Exam’s Solution
1- A one-lane approach is used by 2,100 vehicles per hour. With the averages speed of 35 mph and the
𝑠𝑒𝑐 𝑓𝑡
average vehicle length of 21 ft, the headway ( ) and the average distance between vehicles ( ) are
𝑣𝑒ℎ 𝑣𝑒ℎ
most nearly:
𝑠𝑒𝑐 𝑓𝑡
A. 1.7 , 42
𝑣𝑒ℎ 𝑣𝑒ℎ
𝑠𝑒𝑐 𝑓𝑡
B. 3.2 , 52
𝑣𝑒ℎ 𝑣𝑒ℎ
𝑠𝑒𝑐 𝑓𝑡
C. 1.7 , 67
𝑣𝑒ℎ 𝑣𝑒ℎ
𝑠𝑒𝑐 𝑓𝑡
D. 3.2 , 38
𝑣𝑒ℎ 𝑣𝑒ℎ

Solution:
Answer C.
I) Determine the headway (note that if there was more than one lane, you would need to divide
the volume by the number of lanes):
𝑠𝑒𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑑
𝑠𝑒𝑐 3600 3600 𝑠𝑒𝑐
ℎ𝑟
ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑑𝑤𝑎𝑦 ( ) = = = 1.714
𝑣𝑒ℎ 𝑣𝑜𝑙𝑢𝑚𝑒 𝑝𝑒𝑟 ℎ𝑜𝑢𝑟 2100 𝑣𝑒ℎ

II) Determine the overall spacing per vehicle from the following equation:
𝑓𝑡
𝑠𝑒𝑐
𝑆𝑝𝑎𝑐𝑖𝑛𝑔( )
𝑣𝑒ℎ
ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑑𝑤𝑎𝑦 (𝑣𝑒ℎ) = 𝑓𝑡 →
𝑠𝑝𝑎𝑐𝑒 𝑚𝑒𝑎𝑛 𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑒𝑑 ( )
sec
𝑓𝑡
𝑠𝑒𝑐 𝑠𝑒𝑐 𝑚𝑖𝑙𝑒
𝑠𝑝𝑎𝑐𝑖𝑛𝑔 = ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑑𝑤𝑎𝑦 × 𝑠𝑝𝑒𝑒𝑑 = 1.714 ( )× 1.47( 𝑚𝑖𝑙𝑒 ) × 35( )
𝑣𝑒ℎ ℎ𝑜𝑢𝑟
ℎ𝑜𝑢𝑟
𝑓𝑡
𝑠𝑝𝑎𝑐𝑖𝑛𝑔 = 88
𝑣𝑒ℎ
𝑓𝑡
5280( )
𝑚𝑖
Note: Change the average speed’s unit from mph into ft/sec by multiplying it by 1.47 or 𝑠𝑒𝑐 .
3600( )
ℎ𝑜𝑢𝑟

III) Compute the space between vehicles by subtracting the average vehicle length from the
overall spacing:
𝑓𝑡
= 88 - 21 = 67 𝑣𝑒ℎ

46
2- The following information is collected for an intersection:
52 crashes per 6 years
A crash rate of 0.7 per million entering vehicles
The ADT (volume) entering the intersection is most nearly:
A. 34,000
B. 21,500
C. 7,000
D. 2,000

Solution:
Answer A.
I. The question asks for ADT (average daily traffic). This means that the daily, not annual,
traffic is of interest. Considering 365 days per year, make the units consistent:
𝑣𝑜𝑙𝑢𝑚𝑒 (𝑛𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑐𝑟𝑎𝑠ℎ𝑒𝑠)×106
𝐶𝑟𝑎𝑠ℎ 𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑒 ( )= 𝑑𝑎𝑦𝑠 →
𝑚𝑖𝑙𝑙𝑖𝑜𝑛 (365 )×(𝑦𝑒𝑎𝑟𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑐𝑟𝑎𝑠ℎ 𝑎𝑛𝑎𝑙𝑦𝑠𝑖𝑠)×(𝐴𝐷𝑇)
𝑦𝑒𝑎𝑟

II. Determine ADT by rearranging the equation (crash rate = 0.7):

52×106
ADT = = 33,920
365 × 6 × 0.7
Note: If the annual traffic volume was asked, remove 365 from the above equation.

47
3- A travel demand model is calibrated as follows:
T = 18 + 1.4 P + 2.3 V + 0.1 I
where:
T = the monthly number of auto trips per household
P = the number of persons in each household
V = the number of vehicles owned by each household
I = the total income of the household (in thousand dollars)
For a traffic zone with 2,200 households and the average per household values of 2.3 persons, 1.9
vehicles, $95,000 of total income, the total number of auto trips per month is most nearly:
A. 21,000
B. 77,000
C. 150,100
D. 1,600,000

Solution:
* A similar test was in the 2021 PE transportation-in-depth exam.
Answer B.
I) Use the given equation to determine the average number of trips per household:
T = 18 +1.4 P + 2.3 V + 0.1 I
= 18 + 1.4 × 2.3 + 2.3 × 1.9 + 0.1 × 95 →
T = 35.09 (see Note 2)
Note 1: For all equations, check consistency and units. In the above equation, income is in thousands.
Therefore, we need to use 95 instead of 95,000.

II) Compute the total trips, considering all 2,200 households:

Total trips = T × no. households = 35.09 × 2200 = 77,198
Note 2: The number of trips is not exact for two reasons: (1) all models have errors; (2) the number of
trips should be found for each household separately (disaggregate) and then summed over all households.
When you use a disaggregate model based on average values only, the errors increase.

48
4- A convention center hosts an event with 10,000 attending. A dedicated pedestrian walkway is designed
from the center to the metro station, with an effective width of 25 ft. Based on the following information:
(1) 80% of the center is emptied in the first hour after the event,
(2) PHF is 0.9,
(3) the metro-mode choice from all travel is 25%, and
(4) the random-flow-arrival assumption.
The peak flow rate (ped/min/ft) and the level of service of the walkway during the first hour are:
A. 3.8, LOS A
B. 1.5, LOS A
C. 2.4, LOS D
D. 7.7, LOS D

Solution:
Answer B.
I) Determine the number of pedestrians (flow) who use the walkway in the first hour (note that
only 25% will use the walkway to metro, according to the metro-mode choice):
𝑣 = 0.8 × 0.25 × 10,000 = 2,000 ped/hr
II) Compute the peak flow from hourly rate (divide by 4 × PHF):
𝑣 2000
𝑉15 = = = 556 ped (per 15 min)
4 𝑃𝐻𝐹 4×0.9
III) The average pedestrian flow per unit of width is (HCM 2016, Equ. 24-3, pp. 24-13):
𝑉15 556
𝑉𝑝 = = = 1.48 ped/min-ft
15𝑊𝑒 15×25

IV) To determine LOS by either: (1) Using 𝑉𝑝 , or

(2) Calculating the average space (ft2/ped), knowing the
pedestrian speed (default: 4.0 ft/sec).

V) The LOS is obtained from HCM 2016- Exhibit 24-1, pp. 24-4 (random flow):
LOS A (𝑉𝑝 <5)

Note: In the pedestrian LOS problems, a common mistake is to use inconsistent units. For instance,
instead of ped/min-ft, you might mistakenly use ped/hr-ft or ped/15min-ft. Make sure that you use
appropriate/consistent units, matching the ones used in the LOS table.

49
5- Which of the following factors will NOT require an adjustment in the base saturation flow of a
signalized urban segment’s lane group?
A. Existence of heavy vehicles
B. Inclusion of left-turn with protected phasing
C. A heavy pedestrian flow
D. PHF of 0.92

Solution:
Answer D.
All answers except for D, will decrease saturation flow rate. See Highway Capacity Manual 2016, pp.19-
44 to 19-49.
HCM’s Eq. 19-18 (pp.19-44) includes all the factors that adjust the saturation flow rate.
Note: PHF does not impact the saturation flow rate. However, it changes the flow rate, which is
calculated from the traffic volume.

50
6- A single-server toll collection system handles an average of 2000 vehicles per hour. With the arrival
rate of 1400 vehicles per hour, the average time spent waiting in the queue (seconds per vehicle) is most
nearly:
A. 1.6
B. 4.2
C. 15.1
D. 45.5

Solution:
Answer B.
I) A single-server system follows the M/M/1 model.

II) Mean arrival rate (𝜆) = 1,400 veh/hr and mean service rate (𝜇)= 2,000 veh/hr

III) Determine the utilization factor:

𝜆 1400
𝜌= = = 0.7
𝜇 2000
IV) The average waiting time in queue for an M/M/1 is:
𝜌 0.7 ℎ𝑟
𝑊𝑞 = = = 0.00117
𝜇−𝜆 𝑣𝑒ℎ 𝑣𝑒ℎ 𝑣𝑒ℎ
2000 ( ) − 1400 ( )
ℎ𝑟 ℎ𝑟
𝑠𝑒𝑐
V) Transform the waiting time unit into :
𝑣𝑒ℎ
ℎ𝑟 𝑠𝑒𝑐 𝑠𝑒𝑐
0.00117 × 3600 = 4.2
𝑣𝑒ℎ ℎ𝑜𝑢𝑟 𝑣𝑒ℎ

Note 1: To review queuing models, see Lindeburg’s book, pp. 73-27 to 73-30.

Note 2: Another important queuing concept that you must review is offset, or the time difference between
a common reference point in the coordinated phases at adjacent signalized intersections. Review the PE
handbook, Section 5.4.2, pp. 281 (the latest version).

51
7- A car weighing 1.2 tons travels at 60 mph and hits a barrel weighing 750 lb. The car’s instant speed
after the elastic crash (impact) is most nearly:
A. 45
B. 40
C. 35
D. 30

Solution:
Answer A.
I) For an elastic impact when two objects with weights of m1 and m2 are moving towards each
other at speed rates of V1 and V2, the conversation of momentum equation is:
m1 V1 + m2 V2 = m1 Vˊ1 + m2 Vˊ2
Note 1: When a car (object 1) hits a static object (object 2, barrier), the static object’s initial speed is zero
(V2 = 0), and the final speed of both car and the object are the same (Vˊ1 = Vˊ2):
II) Compute the speed after the impact:
𝑙𝑏
1.2 𝑡𝑜𝑛𝑠 × 2000 × 60 𝑚𝑝ℎ
𝑡𝑜𝑛𝑠
m1 V1 = (m1+ m2) Vˊ1 → Vˊ1 = 𝑙𝑏 = 45.7 mph
(1.2 𝑡𝑜𝑛𝑠 × 2000 + 750 𝑙𝑏)
𝑡𝑜𝑛𝑠

Note 2: Each ton is 2000 pounds.

Note 3: If it was an inelastic impact, some of the kinematic energy would have been lost (See the
Lindeburg book, pp. 72-17), based on the coefficient of restitution.

52
8- In an intersection, 35% of pedestrians are elderly, and the grade is 15%. The recommended walking
speed (ft/sec) is most nearly:
A. 3
B. 3.3
C. 4
D. 4.3

Solution:
Answer A.
You can find the concept in Lindeburg’s book pp. 73-21 or in Highway Capacity Manual 2016, pp. 18-48.
I) The default HCM walking speed is 4.0 ft/sec with a 3-second starting delay, assuming that
elderly walkway users are less than 20%.

II) When more than 20% of users are elderly, use 3.3 ft/sec.

III) When the grade is more than 10%, reduce speed by 0.3 ft/sec.

IV) Both II and III conditions apply here. Therefore, the recommended walking speed is:
= 3.3 - 0.3 = 3 ft/sec

53
9- For the traffic counts shown in the below table, the peak hour factor (PHF) is most nearly:
A. 0.2 Interval Volume
4:45-5:00 PM 990
B. 0.8 5:00-5:15 PM 870
C. 0.95 5:15-5:30 PM 670
5:30-5:45 PM 640
D. 1.21

Solution:
Answer B.
I) Determine the peak 15-min volume within the peak hour:
990 (4:45-5:00 PM).

II) Compute the hourly volume:

= 990 + 870 + 670 + 640 = 3170

III) Compute the peak hour factor from the below equation:
(𝑝𝑒𝑎𝑘_ℎ𝑜𝑢𝑟 𝑣𝑜𝑙𝑢𝑚𝑒) 3170
𝑃𝐻𝐹 = = = 0.8
4 × (𝑝𝑒𝑎𝑘_15 min 𝑣𝑜𝑙𝑢𝑚𝑒) 4 × 990

Note: According to PHF’s definition, the maximum and the minimum possible PHF are 1 and 0.25,
respectively. You can remove the answers that are not in the range. In this test, without any calculation,
you can rule out A and D.

54
10- A four-lane freeway has the following characteristics:
PHF = 0.9
Directional traffic volume = 2,700 vph
Average speed= 55 mph
6% truck
3% bus
Level terrain
The LOS for the freeway is most nearly:
A. LOS B
B. LOS C
C. LOS D
D. LOS F

Solution:
Answer C.
I) We do not need to calculate the speed since it is given in the test: S = 55 mph

II) To determine the flow rate (Vp), we need to compute the heavy-vehicle factor first (Equ. 12-
10, Highway Capacity Manual 2016):
1 1
𝑓𝐻𝑉 = = = 0.917
1 + 𝑃𝑇 (𝐸𝑇 − 1) 1 + (0.06 + 0.03) × (2 − 1)
Note: In the last version of HCM (2016), the buses/trucks are combined into one category for level terrain
or grade<2% (ET= 2 is from Exhibit 12-25, Highway Capacity Manual 2016 for level train). For
various grades and SUT/TT mix

III) Compute the flow rate (Equ. 12-9 Highway Capacity Manual 2016, N is number of lanes in
each direction, here 4/2 = 2):
𝑉 2700
𝑣𝑝 = =
(𝑃𝐻𝐹)(𝑁)𝑓𝐻𝑉 0.9 × 2 × 0.917
= 1635 (passenger cars per hour per lane)

IV) Calculate the density (Equ. 12-11 Highway Capacity Manual 2016):
𝑣𝑝 1635
𝐷= = = 29.7
𝑆 55

V) Determine level of service from Exhibit 12-15, Highway Capacity Manual 2016:
LOS D (using the density of 29.7, which is between 26 and 35).

55
11- A traffic impact study assessed a new mall’s construction in the location below and found that:
- The new mall will generate 300 new trips hourly.
- 60% of new trips will travel Westbound while the rest will travel Eastbound
- The existing number of hourly trips are: Westbound 2,200, Eastbound 2,100

Mall

The total number of vehicles traveling Westbound after the mall construction will be most nearly:
A. 2,100
B. 2,200
C. 2,250
D. 2,375

Solution:
Answer D.
* A similar test was in the 2021 PE transportation-in-depth exam.
I) Determine the number of new trips traveling Westbound:
= 300 × 0.6 = 180 (new Westbound)
II) Add the new Westbound trips to the existing Westbound trips to compute the total
number of vehicles travelling Westbound:
= 2,200 + 180 = 2,380
Note: The test description might show arrows or might state the number vehicles traveling right or left,
instead of clarifying West/East bound movements. In such a case, find the North arrow and remember that
the West is on the left side and the East is on the right side, with the North upwards.

56
12- A proposed horizontal design is specified as:
D (degree of curve) = 5°
I (deflection angle) = 11°45ˊ
Point of intersection’s station = 11 + 50.00
The station of point of curvature is:
A. 10 + 32
B. 10 + 89
C. 11 + 19
D. 11 + 95

Solution:
Answer A.
I) Compute R:
5729.6 5729.6
R= = = 1146 ft
𝐷 5
II) According to the tangent length equation (T):
45
𝐼 11+
60
𝑇 = 𝑅 𝑡𝑎𝑛 2 → 𝑇 = 1146 × 𝑡𝑎𝑛 = 117.9
2
𝑏 𝑐
Note 1: For the a° bˊ cˊˊ format, the angle in degrees equals: 𝑎 + +
60 3600

III) For horizontal curves, determine the PC station:

Sta. PC = Sta. PI – T = 1150 – 117.9
= 1,032.1 ft (or station 10 + 32).
Note 2: Stations, in the U.S. units, are usually measured in 100 ft. Therefore, station 11+50.00 is 1150 ft,
and vice versa.
Note 3: Important equations to remember, in order to locate stations on a horizontal curve, are:
1) Sta. PT = Sta. PC + L
2) Sta. PC = Sta. PI - T
3) Sta. PT = Sta. PI + L - T

57
13- A horizontal circular curve’s point of curvature is located at coordinates 4223.6 N, 1057.3 W (ft) and
has the following characteristics:
- A curve radius of 1100 ft,
- The length of curve = 647 ft, and
- The tangent at PC bearing of S42°45′W.
The coordinates of the PI are most nearly:
A. 3979 N, 1290 W
B. 3899 N, 1211 W
C. 4370 N, 839 W
D. 3979 N, 1284 W

Solution: N

Answer D.
PC
E
222.75°

PI 42.75°

I) We can show the curve as the above figure (42°45′ south west, which is in the negative
x and y coordinates). Accordingly, the back-tangent azimuth is:
45
42 + + 180 = 222.75° (measured clockwise from North).
60
𝑏 𝑐
Note 1: For the a° bˊ cˊˊ format, the angle in degrees equals: 𝑎 + +
60 3600

II) Determine I from (R = 1100 & L = 647):

2𝛱.𝑅.𝐼 2𝛱×1100×𝐼
L= → 647 =
360 360
Rearrange → I = 33.7°

III) Compute the tangent length:

𝐼 33.7
T= R Tan =1100 × Tan ( )= 333.2
2 2

IV) The change in the north coordinate between PC and PI is:

ΔNorth = T. Cos(Azimuth) = 333.2 × cos (222.75) = − 244.7 ft

V) The change in the east coordinate is:

ΔEast = T. Sin(Azimuth) = 333.2 × sin (222.75) = − 226.2 ft

58
Note 2: You do not need to find the back-tangent azimuth (222.75˚) necessarily. Knowing the
positive/negative change(s) from the north or the west would be sufficient to determine the coordinates
(using 42.75˚).

VI) Coordinates (north and east positive) of the PI are:

Northing = 4,223.6 − 244.7 = 3,978.9
Easting = −1,057.3 − 226.2 = − 1,283.5 (west 1057.3 is negative)
Note 3: West/South coordinates are assumed negative while North/East coordinates are positive.

59
14- A 280-ft spiral curve is designed as a transition to a 21-degree-deflection and a 900-ft-radius circular
curve. The PI is stationed at 221+00. The spiral offset from initial angle (ft) is most nearly:
A. 3.6
B. 7.9
C. 11.1
D. 19.4

Solution:
Answer A.
Review Lindeburg ‘s book, pp. 79-18 to 79.20.
I) The spiral offset from initial angle/tangent or tangent shift (𝑄) is calculated form:
𝑄 = 𝑦𝑐 − 𝑅𝑐 (1 − cos 𝐼𝑠 )

II) Determine the unknowns from the above equation- tangent offset (𝑦𝑐 ) and spiral angle (𝐼𝑆 ):
𝐿2𝑆 (280)2
1) 𝑦𝑐 = = = 14.51 ft
6 𝑅𝑐 6×900
𝐿𝑆 𝐷 𝐿𝑆 5729.5 5729.5
2) 𝐼𝑆 = = × (replacing D with ):
200 200 𝑅𝑐 𝑅𝑐
280 5729.5
➔ 𝐼𝑆 = × = 8.91°
200 900

III) Compute the spiral offset from initial angle (also called the tangent shift):
𝑄 = 𝑦𝑐 − 𝑅𝑐 (1 − cos 𝐼𝑠 ) = 14.51 − 900 × (1 −cos( 8.91°)) = 3.64 ft

Note 1: If the test asks for the stations of various points of a spiral curve, use the following equations (see
Lindeburg ‘s book, pp. 79-18 to 79.20). Find 𝑇𝑐 and 𝑇𝑠 , then you can determine the stations:
𝐼 = 𝐼𝐶 + 2𝐼𝑆
𝐼
𝑇𝑐 = (𝑅𝑐 + 𝑄) tan
2
𝑇𝑠 = 𝐿𝑠 − 𝑅𝑐 sin 𝐼𝑠 + 𝑇𝑐
𝑠𝑡𝑎. 𝑇𝑆 = 𝑠𝑡𝑎. 𝑃𝐼 − 𝑇𝑠
𝑠𝑡𝑎. 𝑆𝐶 = 𝑠𝑡𝑎. 𝑇𝑆 + 𝐿𝑠
𝑠𝑡𝑎. 𝐶𝑆 = 𝑠𝑡𝑎. 𝑆𝐶 + 𝐿𝑐
𝑠𝑡𝑎. 𝑆𝑇 = 𝑠𝑡𝑎. 𝐶𝑆 + 𝐿𝑆

Note 2: One of the missing equations in Lindeburg’s book is the external distance of the curve:
(𝑅𝑐 + 𝑄)
𝐸= − 𝑅𝑐
𝐼
𝑐𝑜𝑠 2

60
15- A two-lane highway has a horizontal curve with a radius of 905 ft (centerline) and the curve length of
600 ft. Obstructions are located 20 ft from the edge of the highway (outside). Considering a lane width of
10 ft and assuming a level grade, the safe design speed (mph) based on adequate sight distance is most
nearly:
A. 45
B. 50
C. 55
D. 60
20 ft

obstruction

Solution I:
Answer B.
Based on the horizontal-sightline-offset (HSO) calculations:
I) Determine the radius of the inside lane (center). The radius is calculated by subtracting half-
a-lane width from the centerline radius (since it is one-lane in each direction):
R' = 905 − 5 = 900 ft
II) HSO (middle ordinate) distance is calculated by adding a half-lane width to the edge offset:
HSO = 20 + 5 = 25 ft
III) Using Exhibit 3-53 of AASHTO 2004 Green Book, pp. 226 (US customary) or Figure 3-14
of AASHTO 2018 Green Book, pp. 3-116 with HSO & R':
The corresponding design speed is 50 mph (HSO= 25, R'=900).
Note 1: The PE exam is all in U.S. units. Be careful about using the correct equation/figure.
Solution II, alternative solution:
I) After determining R' and HSO (as above), compute S (stopping sight distance):
28.65 × 𝑆
HSO = 𝑅 [(1 − cos ( 𝑅
)] Rearrange:
𝑅 𝑅−𝐻𝑆𝑂
→S= × (𝑎𝑟𝑐cos ( 𝑅
)) = 425.22 ft
28.65

II) Knowing S, we can determine the design speed (for a level grade) from Exhibit 3-1 of
AASHTO 2004 Green Book, pp. 112 (US customary) or Table 3-1 of AASHTO 2018 Green
Book, pp. 3-4:
with S = 425 ft, we can determine the design speed as 50 mph.
Note 2: Alternative to using the tables, you can determine the design speed by the following equation (V
is unknown, assume default parameters- tR = 2.5 sec, a = 11.2, G = 0%, S = 425 ft):

61
 𝑉2
S = 1.47 V.tR + 𝑎 (Equ. 3-3 of AASHTO 2004/2018).
30( + 𝐺)
32.2

→ V = 50.1 mph

62
16- A sag vertical curve connects grades of -5% to 4.5%. With a speed limit of 45 mph, the curve length
(ft) required for stopping sight distance is most nearly:
A. 365
B. 700
C. 740
D. 940

Solution I:
Answer C.
I) Since we know the speed, we can determine the stopping sight distance from the AASHTO
green book-2004, Exhibit 3-1, pp. 112 or Table 3-1 of AASHTO 2018 (if the road is sloped
use Exhibit/Table 3-2):
S = 360 ft (the design value).
Note 1: In general, we should use Equ. 3-3 of AASHTO 2004/2018 to find the stopping sight distance,
especially if road is sloped.
II) Using the US customary equations, determine the length. First, assume (S < L):
𝐴𝑆 2 (𝐺2 −𝐺1 )𝑆 2 (4.5−(−5))×(360)2
𝐿 = = = →
400+3.5𝑆 400+3.5 𝑆 400+3.5×360
𝐿 = 741.7 ft (S < L, ok)
III) You might want to check the (S > L) equation as well:
400+3.5 𝑆 400+3.5×360
𝐿 = 2𝑆 − 9.5
= 2×360 − = 545.3 ft (S < L, wrong)
9.5
Note 2: The PE exam is all in U.S. units. Be careful about using the correct equation/figure.
Note 3: If the test does not specify the criteria, you need to calculate both passing and stopping sight
distances to determine the required minimum curve length.
Note 4: If the heights are given, we should not use the default values and the above equations are not
valid any more. Use the general equations, including the driver’s and the object’s heights.

Solution II, Alternative solution:

1) Instead of the above calculations and only if the default heights are used, you can use a figure like
Figure 79-15 of the Lindeburg’s book, Exhibit 3-74 of the AASHTO green book-2004, pp. 275,
or Figure 3-37 of the AASHTO green book-2018, pp. 3-174.

2) Since we know the speed (S or V = 45 mph) and the grade difference (A = 9.5%), find L from the
figure:
L≈ 740 ft.

63
Note 5: The above value is the design control value considering a variety of factors, not necessarily
according to the stopping sight distance. Therefore, you need to be careful in using such a figure.

64
17- A crest vertical curve’ features are shown in the figure. The station of the highest point of the curve is
most nearly:

A. 44 + 06.00
B. 41 + 92.00
C. 41 + 23.00 PVI or V
Station 42+65
D. 40 + 75.00 Elevation 447 ft

L=1600 ft
PVT or G2= - 3.5%
PVC or BVC
G1= + 5% EVC

Solution:
Answer A.
I) An-equal tangent parabolic curve is defined by the following equation (see Lindeburg’s book,
𝐺2 −𝐺1
pp. 79-11 to 79-13)- (R = ):
𝐿
𝑥2
𝐸𝑙𝑒𝑣𝑥 = 𝑅 +𝐺1 𝑥 + 𝐸𝑙𝑒𝑣𝑝𝑣𝑐
2

Note 1: 𝑥 is from the beginning of the curve (PVC).

II) To determine the high point, take the derivative and set it equal to zero (the maximization of
a function, where slope is zero):
−𝐺1 −5
𝑅 𝑥 +𝐺1 = 0 → 𝑥 = 𝐺2−𝐺1 = −3.5−5 = 941 ft
𝐿 1600

Note 2: The maximum or minimum elevation on a vertical curve, known as turning point or
high/low point, is located at the distance X from PVC Alternative to the above calculations in I
and II, you can use the following equation directly:
−𝐺1
𝑥=
𝑅
𝐺2 −𝐺1
where 𝑅 = (the rate of change of grade)
𝐿

III) 𝑥 is the distance from PVC. Therefore, we need to determine the PVC station. For equal-
tangent vertical curves:
𝐿 1600
Sta. PVC = Sta. PVI - = 4,265 – = 3,465 ft
2 2

65
Note 3: In route surveying according to the U.S. units, stations are measured from a benchmark and
divided into 100 ft sections. Therefore, a stake placed 825 ft from station 0+00.00 is labeled 8+25.00.
IV) Compute the station of the high point from PVC:
= 3465 + 𝑥 = 3465 + 941 = 4,406 ft

= 44 + 06 sta.

66
18- With the following information for a vertical-sag curve:
- For a 65-mph four-lane highway;
- object’s height of 5 ft;
- eye’s height of 9 ft; and
- a 2100-ft long curve with a difference in grade of 7%.
The passing sight distance (ft) for an overhead bridge that passes over at a vertical clearance of 18 ft is
most nearly:
A. 980
B. 1,625
C. 2,170
D. 4,385

Solution:
Answer B.
See AASHTO-Greenbook 2004, pp. 277 to 280 or AASHTO-Greenbook 2018, pp. 3-177 to 3-188.
I) Use the general equations to determine sight distance at undercrossing. First, assume S > L
(Equation 3-52-2004 or Equation 3-53-2018):
ℎ +ℎ
800 (𝐶 − 1 2 2 )
𝐿 = 2𝑆 − (for S > L)
𝐴

Note 1: The PE exam is all in U.S. units. Be careful about using the correct equation/figure.

II) Rewrite the equation and find S:

ℎ +ℎ 5+9
𝐿 400(𝐶 − 1 2 2 ) 2100 400×(18 − 2 )
𝑆= + = +
2 𝐴 2 7
→ S = 1,679 ft (S < L, wrong − does not meet the assumption)

III) Now assume S < L and use Equation 3-53-AASHTO 2004 or Equation 3-54-AASHTO
2018):
𝐴 𝑆2
𝐿=
ℎ +ℎ
800 (𝐶 − 1 2 2 )

IV) Rewrite the equation and find S:

ℎ1 + ℎ2 5+9
√800 𝐿 (𝐶 − 2 ) √800 × 2100 × (18 − 2 )
𝑆= =
𝐴 7
→ S = 1,625 ft (S < L ok)

67
Note 2: Be careful about using simplistic equations. Many books, including Lindeburg’s, suggests a
simple equation (3-54/55-AASHTO 2004 or 3-55/56-AASHTO 2018) to determine the sight distance or
length of a curve according to the default values (assuming object’s height of 8 ft, eye’s height of 2 ft):
800(𝐶 − 5)
𝐿 = 2𝑆 − 𝑜𝑟
𝐴
𝐴 𝑆2
𝐿=
800(𝐶 − 5)
However, when we know the heights (as is the case in this test), we can no longer use the simplistic
equation. Be cautious regarding the use of general vs. simplistic equations.

68
19- A crest vertical curve is designed as shown. The elevation (ft) of the PVT is most nearly:
A. 250
B. 300
C. 350 PVI
Station 123+65
D. 400 Elevation 321 ft

PVC PVT G2= - 4%

G1= + 6%
Station 117+50.00

Solution:
Answer B.
Note 1: Assume a symmetrical vertical curve if not mentioned otherwise in the test.

I) Since the vertical curve is an equal-tangent curve (i.e., it is a symmetrical vertical curve), half
the curve length is the distance from the PVC to the PVI:
𝐿
= 12365 - 11750 = 615
2
𝐿
II) Calculate the PVT evaluation from the PVI using the G2 slope and the distance:
2
𝐿
YPVT = YPVI + G2 2 = 321− 0.04 × 615 = 296.4 ft
𝐿
Note 2: The distance from PVC to PVI equals to the distance from PVI to PVT ( ). Therefore, we can use
2
𝐿
for II.
2

Note 3: Important equations to remember, in order to locate elevations on a symmetrical vertical curve,
are:
𝐿
YPVI = YPVC + G1 2
𝐿
YPVT = YPVI + G2 2

69
20- The minimum number of primary signal faces for a through 3-lane approach with a speed limit of 50
mph is:
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 4

Solution:
Answer C.
See MUTCD-2009 pages 459 to 461.
I) Use Table 4D-1 (pp.461).

II) With 3 lanes on the approach, find the minimum total number of primary signal faces from
the table:

3 is required.

Other important notes about the table:

1- A minimum of two through signal faces is always required (footnote).

2- Make sure you understand the difference between total primary faces (the middle column) and
overhead-mounted faces (the right column).

3- If practical, all primary signal faces should be located overhead (footnote).

Note: Use Table 4D-2 to determine the minimum sight distance for signal visibility.

70
21- A roundabout is designed with the following features:
Desirable speed of 25 mph
Inscribed circle diameter of 200 ft
Service volume of 25,000
The recommended roundabout type is:

A. Mini-roundabout
B. Single-lane roundabout
C. Multi-lane roundabout
D. Modern roundabout

Solution:
Answer C.
Note 1: According to AASHTO Green Book 2018, “modern roundabouts can be classified into three
basic categories”:
1. Mini-roundabouts
2. Single-lane roundabouts
3. Multilane roundabouts

I. Use Table 9-3 of AASHTO Green Book 2018 (pp. 9-28).

II. All three features match with those of multi-lane roundabouts in the table.

Note 2: This concept is one of the few concepts that are not covered in the AASHTO Green Book-2004.
You might want to read/copy pages 9-26 to 9-30 of AASHTO Green Book 2018 if you use the AASHTO
Green Book-2004.
Note 3: Modern roundabouts are different from older rotaries or signalized traffic circles, according to
AASHTO Green Book 2018, based on the following features:
➢ “Yield control for all entering traffic.

➢ Channelized approaches.

➢ Appropriate curvature designed into the intersection geometry so that travel speeds on the
circulatory roadway are typically less than 30 mph [50 km/h].

➢ Splitter islands on each leg of the roundabout to separate entering.”

71
22- A 4-leg stop-controlled intersection has one lane per approach in each direction with a design speed
of 40 mph for the major direction. The minor-road approach is a 5% upgrade. The minimum sight
distance (ft) for a combination truck turning right from a minor street is most nearly:
A. 26 ft
B. 391 ft
C. 540 ft
D. 647 ft

Solution:
Answer D.
I) For the intersection sight distance (ISD), use Equation 9-1 of AASHTO Greenbook, both in
2004 and 2018:
𝐼𝑆𝐷 = 1.47 𝑉𝑚𝑎𝑗𝑜𝑟 𝑡𝑔
II) Determine the time gap (𝑡𝑔 ) for a right turn from the AASHTO Greenbook 2004, Exhibit 9-
57, pp. 664. or from the AASHTO Greenbook 2018, Table 9-8, pp. 9-47:
10.5 seconds (the unadjusted right-turn gap for a combination truck).
Note 1: The required adjustments to time gaps are: 1) For more than two-lane highways (one lane per
approach), add 0.5 and 0.7 seconds, for passenger cars and trucks, respectively (for each additional lane);
2) For, the minor approach’s grade more than 3%, add 0.1 seconds for each percent grade; 3) The median
width should be added as additional lanes, i.e., a 24-ft median is equivalent to two additional lanes.
III) Make adjustments; only Condition 2 from Note 1 applies here. (5% grade > 3%) →
Add 5% × 0.1 seconds/%grade:
or 0.5 seconds

IV) Find the adjusted time gap:

10.5 + 0.5 = 11 seconds.

V) Use the above-mentioned ISD equation in I to determine a truck’s minimum sight distance to
turn right along the major road:
𝐼𝑆𝐷 = 1.47 𝑉𝑚𝑎𝑗𝑜𝑟 𝑡𝑔 = 1.47 × 40 × 11= 646.8 ft

Note 2: For the time gap on left turns (instead of a right turn in this test), use the AASHTO Greenbook
2004, Exhibit 9-54, pp. 660 or the AASHTO Greenbook 2018, Table 9-6, pp 9.44.

72
23- A vehicle travels on a 3% upgrade at 50 mph. The braking distance (ft) for the vehicle is most nearly:
A. 221
B. 315
C. 426
D. 507

Solution:
Answer A.
Note 1: It is important to read the problem description carefully. The braking distance, not the total
stopping sight distance, is of concern.
I) A general equation to calculate the stopping sight distance, combining Equation 3-3 with
Equation 3-2 of AASHTO Green Book 2004 or 2018, is:
𝑉2
d = 1.47 V.tR + 𝑎
30( + 𝐺)
32.2

II) Determine the braking distance only by using Equation 3-3; disregarding the brake reaction
time (1.47 V.tR):
𝑉2 502
braking = 𝑎 = 11.2 = 221 ft.
30(32.2 + 𝐺) 30( + 0.03)
32.2

Note 2: Assume the default deceleration rate (a) of 11.2 ft/s2 since the actual value is not given in the
question. This value represents the threshold that most vehicle braking systems and pavements are
capable of providing, even on slippery pavements. Usually for slippery conditions, a = 11.2 ft/s2

Note 3: For problems like this, you need to be cautious about using AASHTO Green Book’s
default/values/equations. For instance, AASHTO uses the driver perception time of 2.5 sec (tR). If such a
value is not given in the problem description, use the default value. If a value different from the default
value is given, use the corresponding general equation/table/figure (Equation in I) rather than using a
figure/table with default values (Exhibit 3-2 of AASHTO 2004 or Table 3-2 of AASHTO 2018).
However, note that the driver perception time is not relevant to this test since brake reaction time is not
asked.

73
24- A freeway ramp is designed as:
Barrier curb on one side
Traffic consists predominantly of passenger vehicles, some consideration for SU trucks
One-lane one-way operation with no passing provision
Radius on inner edge of the pavement 150 ft
The pavement width for the ramp (ft) is most nearly:

A. 3.9
B. 14
C. 15
D. 19

Solution:
Answer C.
I) Use Exhibit 3-51 of AASHTO Green Book 2004 (pp. 220) or Tables 3-27 and 3-28 of
AASHTO Green Book 2018 (pp. 3-109&110).

II) Traffic consists of predominantly of passenger vehicles: Condition A.

One-lane one-way operation with no passing provision is Case I.

III) Determine the unadjusted width using Condition A, Case I, and the radius on inner edge of
the pavement 150 ft:
14 ft (from Exhibit 3-51 of AASHTO-2004 or Table 3-27 of AASHTO-2018)

IV) Adjust the width for a vertical curb on one side:

add 1 ft (see Exhibit 3-51 of AASHTO-2004 or Table 3-28 of AASHTO-2018).

V) Based on III and IV, we can determine the width:

14 ft + 1 ft = 15 ft

Note: Always use the US customary parts/tables/figures. The PE exam is all in terms of the U.S. units.

74
25- A rural collector road on a rolling terrain is under design consideration. If the design speed is 35 mph
and the AADT is 1500, the maximum allowable grade (%) is:
A. 11
B. 9
C. 8
D. 7

Solution:
Answer A.
I) Refer to AASHTO-Greenbook 2004, Exhibit 6-3, page 423.
or AASHTO-Greenbook 2018, Table 6-2, page 6-4.

II) Find the maximum grade from the table, considering rolling terrain & the speed limit of 35
mph, US Customary:
9%.

III) Based on the footnote, add 2% for low volume: 9 + 2 = 11%.

Note 1: An important footnote states that on low-volume rural collectors (AADT <2000), assume 2%
steeper grades.

Note 2: Always check the footnotes of tables/figures. Also, note that AASHTO 2018 clearly defines low-
volume collectors as AADT<2000 while in AASHTO 2004, it is not clear. Again, you are definitely
better off buying/using the latest version. However, this is one of the rare cases that the earlier version is
not sufficient.

Note 3: Be careful about the road type. For instance, if in this test, the road was an urban collector you
should use the corresponding table to determine the maximum grade:
AASHTO-Greenbook 2004, Exhibit 6-8, page 432.
or AASHTO-Greenbook 2018, Table 6-7, page 6-15.

75
26- A single-lane (12-ft width) approach enters a work zone with a speed limit of 55 mph. There is a lane
closure with the additional 2 ft required for channelization. The minimum shifting taper length (ft) is most
nearly:
A. 770
B. 650
C. 545
D. 385

Solution:
Answer D.
I) Determine the general taper length, using MUTCD 2009, Table 6C-4, pp. 557:
L = W.S (Speed ≥ 45 mph) → L = (12 + 2) × 55= 770 ft
Note 1: The offset width (W) is the sum of the lane width and the additional length for channelization.

II) Adjust the length for a shifting taper, using MUTCD 2009, Table 6C-3, pp. 557:
= 0.5 × L = 385 ft.
Note 2: These two tables could be used to determine the taper length for a variety taper types. However,
in some cases, you should use other equations/figures. For instance, for a bike-path taper length, use
MUTCD 2009, Figure 9C-8 (pp. 815).

76
27- One-lane operation, no provision for passing a stalled vehicle, is designed to accommodate a WB-62
truck. The required traveled-way width (ft) for a 75-ft-radius curve is most nearly:
A. 2.5
B. 12.5
C. 30
D. 150

Solution:
Answer C.
I. Refer to AASHTO- Green BOOK, 2018, Table 3-26a, pp. 3-106
or AASHTO- Green BOOK, 2004, Exhibit 3-50, pp. 218.

II. One-lane operation, no provision for passing a stalled vehicle, is Case I.

III. Determine the derived traveled-way width, using R = 75 ft, Case I, and WB-62:
30 ft (from AASHTO- 2018, Table 3-26a)
29 ft (from AASHTO- 2004, Exhibit 3-50)
Note: This is one of the rare cases that the earlier version (2004) is not completely the same as the last
version (2018). Note that you should always use the most recent version of books (or AASHTO 2018,
here).

77
28- A signalized intersection segment with one-lane has the following characteristics:
4-sec clearance time including all red time,
30-sec green time out of 95-sec cycle length,
Start-up lost time of 1.6 sec per phase,
Clearance lost time of 1 sec per phase, and
Saturation headway of 2.5 sec/vehicle.
The capacity (vehicle per hour) for this segment is most nearly:
A. 475
B. 585
C. 1,110
D. 1,840

Solution:
Answer A.
I) As soon as the headway is given, you can compute the flow rate, in this case the saturation
flow rate, from the following equation (Highway Capacity Manual, 2016, Eq. 4-8, pp.4-15)
is:
3600 3600 𝑠𝑒𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑑/ℎ𝑟
𝑆 (saturation flow) = = = 1440 veh/hour
ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑑𝑤𝑎𝑦 2.5 𝑠𝑒𝑐/𝑣𝑒ℎ

II) Determine the effective green time (g)- Highway Capacity Manual, 2016, Eq. 19-2 & 19-3:
𝑔 = Dp – l1– l2 = 30 + 4 – 1.6 – 1 = 31.4 sec
where Dp is the phase duration for the approach (including, clearance lost time)
l1 is the start-up lost time
l2 is the clearance lost time

III) Compute the capacity of the lane group from Highway Capacity Manual, 2016, Eq. 19-16
(pp.19-59):
𝑔 31.4
𝑐 = 𝑁. 𝑆. = 1 × 1440 × = 476 vehicles per hour
𝐶 95
where
S is the adjusted saturation flow from Eq. 19-18, Highway Capacity Manual- 2016. However,
since the saturation headway is given in this test, you can determine S directly from the
headway.
N is the number of lanes in the approach and
C is the cycle length.

78
29- For a signal located 45 ft from an intersection, the maximum height of the top of signal housing from
the pavement is most nearly (ft):
A. 25.1
B. 24.4
C. 23.7
D. 22.8

Solution:
Answer D.
I. Refer to MUTCD 2009, pp. 465, Figure 4D-5.

II. The maximum height from the figure (using the horizontal distance of 45 ft):
22.8 ft.
Note 1: Regardless of intersection’ location, the maximum possible height of the top of the signal housing
(mounting height) is 25.6 ft.
Note 2: The bottom of the signal housing shall be (as mentioned in the text):
1- For a vertical signal: (between 8 ft and 19 ft) above the sidewalk & (between 4.5 ft and 19 ft)
above the median island
2- For a horizontal signal: (between 8 ft and 22 ft) above the sidewalk & (between 4.5 ft and 22 ft)
above the median island
Note 3: For the lateral offset: the bottom of housing from curbs less than 15 feet and more than 2 feet.

79
30- A four-lane major street intersects with a two-lane minor street. The below table shows the observed
peak 8-hour traffic on an average day. According to the MUTCD, which 8-hour-warrant conditions are
met?
Total Higher-
A. Condition A only Interval volume on volume on
major minor
B. Condition B only 5:00-6:00 AM 150 50
C. Both conditions A and B 6:00-7:00 AM 420 70
D. Neither conditions 7:00-8:00 AM 950 260
8:00-9:00 AM 610 210
9:00-10:00 AM 410 140
10:00-11:00 AM 370 150
11:00-12:00 AM 450 170
12:00-1:00 PM 720 230
1:00- 2:00 PM 650 220
2:00- 3:00 PM 510 210
3:00- 4:00 PM 690 240
4:00- 5:00 PM 730 280
5:00- 6:00 PM 1190 320
7:00- 8:00 PM 650 160

Solution:
Answer A.
The signal warrants are defined in MUTCD 2009, pp. 436 to 448. The eight-hour warrant (Warrant #1) is
shown in MUTCD 2009, Table 4C-1, pp. 438.
I) Check conditions A and B for each hour in Table 4C-1, for 2 or more lanes on major, one
lane on minor in each direction, for 100% column):
Condition A is met with: VPH on major > 600 and VPH on minor>150.
Condition B is not met with: VPH on major > 900 and VPH on minor>75.

Note 1: Either of conditions A or B is sufficient for Warrant 1. Also, warrant 1 could be met for the
combination of both conditions. If the posted speed limit is over 35 mph or the intersection in an isolated
community with a less than 10,000 population, we use 70% (for either conditions) or 56% (for the
combination) columns. Otherwise, use 100% (for either conditions) or 80% (for the combination).

II) We need at least 8 hours for each condition, check all hours, see the table below (the hours
that met either of conditions are marked, according to I):

80
 Total Higher-
Interval volume on volume on Condition A Condition B
major minor
5:00-6:00 AM 150 50 - -
6:00-7:00 AM 420 70 - -
7:00-8:00 AM 950 260 √ √
8:00-9:00 AM 610 210 √ -
9:00-10:00
410 140 - -
AM
10:00-11:00
370 150 - -
AM
11:00-12:00
450 170 - -
AM
12:00-1:00
720 230 √ -
PM
1:00- 2:00 PM 650 220 √ -
2:00- 3:00 PM 510 210 - -
3:00- 4:00 PM 690 240 √ -
4:00- 5:00 PM 730 280 √ -
5:00- 6:00 PM 1190 320 √ √
7:00- 8:00 PM 650 160 √ -

III) Determine if the conditions are met based on the table:

Condition A is met (8 hours, 8 hours needed) √
Condition B is not met (only 2 hours, 8 hours needed) X
Note 2: If the question was whether the 8-hour warrant is met or not, the answer would have been yes
since only one of the conditions are required (condition A is met). Note that the question is about meeting
the conditions separately. Therefore, you need to check the 100% column, not 80% for their combination.
Note 3: If you check and see either conditions are not met, you still need to check the combination (80%
or 56% columns), depending on speed or population.
Note 4: We need 24-hour traffic data to make sure if conditions are met or not. However, note that the
missing hours are usually very low in traffic.
Note 5: The traffic volume on the major street is the summation of both directions’ volumes while the
traffic volume on the minor street is the highest of either direction (one direction only).

81
31- A ground-mounted stop sign is designed in an urban rail-road crossing area on a separate sign. The
vertical and horizontal distances (locations) of the stop sign from the edge of the traveled way are,
respectively:
A. 5 ft and 6 ft
B. 7 ft and 2 ft
C. 5 ft and 12 ft
D. 5 ft and 9 ft

Solution:
* A similar test was in the 2021 PE paper-October exam breath exam section.
Answer B.
I. Use MUTCD 2009, Figure 8B-3 (pp.756), (stop sign in a rail-road crossing area on a separate
sign), use the figure below (urban with pedestrians).

II. Check vertical and horizontal distances on the figure:

7 ft (vertical) and 2 ft (horizontal)

Note: A common mistake is to check the vertical/horizontal distances shown for a general stop sign (e.g.,
MUTCD 2009 Figure 2A-2, pp. 38, only use such a figure for a general case). Read the test carefully.
Here, we are asked to check for a stop sign in an urban rail-road crossing area on a separate sign

82
32- The delineator spacing (in ft) for a horizontal curve of 4° is most nearly:
A. 86
B. 89
C. 112
D. 94

Solution:
Answer C.
I) Determine the radius:
5729.6
R= = 1432 𝑓𝑡
𝐷
II) Use MUTCD, 2009, pp.426-427, Table 3F-1. However, note that the radius is greater than the
largest radius reported in the table. Therefore, you need to use the footnote:

S = 3√𝑅 − 50 = 111.5 𝑓𝑡

83
33- A “turn” warning sign with an advisory speed of 30 mph is designed on a road with a speed limit of
50 mph. The distance in advance (ft) that the sign should be placed is most nearly:
A. 125
B. 175
C. 200
D. 250

Solution:
Answer A.
I) Use MUTCD 2009, Table 2C-4, pp. 108. This table provides the guideline for the advance
placement of:
Condition A (speed reduction and lane changing in heavy traffic): For Merge and Right
Lane End signs.
Condition B (deceleration to a speed): For 1) intersection warning signs- Stop/Yield
Ahead or Signal-Ahead signs where the advisory (secondary) speed is reduced to zero, or
2) Turn/Curve signs or other signs where the advisory speed is reduced to a certain speed
level.

II) The posted (85th percentile) speed limit is 50 mph and the advisory speed is 30 mph.

III) Determine the advance placement in ft from the table (use condition B):
125 ft.

84
34- Which following answer DOES NOT match its description:
A. The standard penetration test (SPT) provides an indirect measurement of the relative density for
cohesionless soils.
B. The modified proctor test is used to determine the maximum dry density of a compacted soil.
C. The California bearing ratio test determines the shear strength of different soil types.
D. The Atterberg limit test provides water contents corresponding to transitions between solid, plastic,
and liquid states of a clayey soil.

Solution:
Answer C.
All other answers are correct.
The California bearing ratio test determines the suitability of a soil as a subbase in pavement sections
(according to inches of penetration).
The direct shear test determines the relationship of soil’s shear strength to consolidation stress while the
vane-shear test measures the shear strengths of low-strength cohesive soil samples.

85
35- Several samples with varying moisture content are used for a standard proctor test, as shown in the
table below. The maximum dry unit weight (lb/ft3) is most nearly:

Sample Weight Moisture

A. 86 (lb) content
(%)
B. 89
1 3.1 10%
C. 111 2 3.4 12%
3 3.5 15%
D. 94 4 3.7 18%
5 4.1 21%

Solution:
Answer D.
Note 1: The standard-proctor-test mold volume is 1/30 ft3. You should know this, although it might be
given in the problem.
I) Determine the unit weight for each sample using the weight and volume. For instance, for
sample 1:
𝑊1 3.1
𝛾1 = = = 93 lb/ft3
𝑉 1/30

II) Convert the unit weight to a dry unit weight (using moisture content, 𝜔). For instance, for
sample 1:
𝛾1 93
𝛾𝑑1 = = = 84.5 lb/ft3
1+𝜔 1+0.1
III) Repeat the above calculations for all samples:

Sample Weight Moisture Unit Dry unit

(lb) content weight weight
(%)
1 3.1 10% 93 84.5
2 3.4 12% 102 91.1
3 3.5 15% 105 91.3
4 3.7 18% 111 94.1
5 3.6 21% 108 89.2
IV) The max dry density from the table is from Sample 4.

Note 2: You do not need to repeat the calculations for the samples that have both lower weight and higher
moisture content than one sample. The dry weights of those samples are definitely lower, by definition.
For instance, in this test, Sample 5’s weight is definitely less than those of Sample 4, therefore, you can
skip such calculations and save time.

86
36- Two trucks impose axle loads as shown below for the terminal serviceability index of 2.5 and
pavement structural number of 4 (flexible pavement). The ratio of pavement damage from truck B over
those from truck A is most nearly:
A. 16
B. 9
C. 5
D. 3

Solution:
Answer C.
Use AASHTO Guide for Design of Pavement Structures (Tables D-4 and D-5), or the tables in the
Lindeburg’s book, See Appendix 76.A and 76.B (pp. A.143-144).
Note 1: Also, refer to the section in the PE handbook, pp.301.
I) With the tables, find the load equivalency factors:
For truck A: LEF (6 kips, single axle, SN = 4) = 0.013
LEF (12 kips, single axle, SN = 4) = 0.213

For truck B: LEF (8 kips, single axle, SN = 4) = 0.041

LEF (28 kips, 2 tandem axles, SN = 4) = 0.534/axle

II) you can determine the load equivalency for each axle load (ESAL):
ESAL (A) = ∑(𝑁𝑎𝑥𝑙𝑒 ) × (𝐿𝑜𝑎𝑑 𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑣𝑎𝑙𝑛𝑒𝑐𝑡 𝑓𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑜𝑟)= 1× 0.013 + 1× 0.213 = 0.226
ESAL (B) = ∑(𝑁𝑎𝑥𝑙𝑒 ) × (𝐿𝑜𝑎𝑑 𝑒𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑣𝑎𝑙𝑛𝑒𝑐𝑡 𝑓𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑜𝑟)= 1× 0.041 + 2 × 0.534 = 1.109
Note 2: The load equivalent factors are determined from the table. For instance, in the above calculations,
the load equivalency factor for 6 kips (6000 lb) is 0.01043 form the table.

III) The ratio equals:

1.109
= 4.91
0.226

87
37- Which of the following does define the general relationship between the lateral earth strains?
A. The soil passive pressure’s lateral strain is at least half of the soil active pressure’s lateral strain.
B. The soil passive pressure’s lateral strain is less than the soil active pressure’s lateral strain.
C. The soil passive pressure’s lateral strain is equal to the soil active pressure’s lateral strain.
D. The soil passive pressure’s lateral strain is at least twice the soil active pressure’s lateral strain.

Solution:
Answer D.
You can find the concept in most soil mechanics book. For instance, see Chapter 7 of Ricketts et al., 5th
edition, Standard Handbook for Civil Engineers.
Note 1: The lateral (active/passive) strains are required to fully mobilize the soil (active/passive) pressure.
The relationship is as described in Answer D.
Note 2: Active (forward/tensioned) earth pressure is the force per unit area behind a retaining wall that
tensions the soil while passive (backward/compressed) earth pressure compresses the soil. They are
calculated according to the following equations:
Active pressure = 𝑃𝑣 𝐾𝑎 − 2𝑐√𝐾𝑎
Passive pressure= 𝑃𝑣 𝐾𝑝 + 2𝑐√𝐾𝑝
where the active and passive earth pressure coefficients (𝐾𝑎 and 𝐾𝑏 ) are related (𝜑 is the internal friction
angle):
1 𝜑
𝐾𝑎 = = 𝑡𝑎𝑛2 (45° − )
𝐾𝑝 2

88
38- The unit hydrograph is estimated by the following table:

Time (hour) 0 1 2 3 4 5
3
Discharge Q (ft /sec/inch) 0 50 85 125 50 0

A storm produces the excess precipitation of 1.1 in. during the first hour, followed by 2.5 in. during the
second hour. The stream discharge (ft 3 /sec) at the end of the third hour is most nearly:
A. 155
B. 210
C. 350
D. 185

Solution I:
Answer C.
I) Calculate the flow rate by combining the effect of the first hour (with a 2-hr lag since the first
hour of excess precipitation begins at t = 0) with the effect of the second hour (with a 1-hr
lag).

II) Each of the two elements should be scaled by the appropriate excess precipitation (1.1 in. and
0.8 in., respectively) since we have the unit hydrograph- for one inch:
Q = 125 × 1.1 + 85 × 2.5 = 350 ft3/s.
Solution II- Alternative solution:
You can set up a detailed table, separating the discharge form each rain, and then sum them up.
I) Shift the hydrograph (considering the lags of both rains),
II) Multiply the first- and second-hour rain by 1.1 and 2.5, respectively, and
III) Sum them up. The result would be the discharge in each hour:
Time (hour) 0 1 2 3 4 5
Unit hydrograph 0 50 85 125 50 0
Shifted hydrograph (1st rain) 0 50 85 125 50 0
First-hour rain discharge 1.1×0 1.1×50 1.1×85 1.1×125 1.1×50 1.1×0
Shifted hydrograph (2nd rain) 0 0 50 85 125 50
Second-hour rain discharge - 2.5×0 2.5×50 2.5×85 2.5×125 2.5×50
Total (discharge in each hour) 0 55 218.5 350 367.5 125

Note: A unit hydrograph is developed by dividing every point on the overland flow hydrograph by the
average excess precipitation (or the hydrograph dropping one inch of precipitation). If the initial table in
this test was not a unit hydrograph (not for a one-inch rain), you should have determined the unit
hydrograph first and then repeat the above calculations.

89
39- A 32-in.-diameter concrete culvert operates under inlet control. The following information is given:
Upstream Elevation: 221.0 ft
Downstream Elevation: 220.5 ft
Entrance type: Groove end with headwall
Length: 155 ft
Roadway elevation: 239 ft
Design flow rate: 90 cfs
The required vertical clearance (ft) between the roadway and the design flood elevation is most nearly:
A. 5.2
B. 8.4
C. 9.7
D. 11.8

Solution:
Answer B.
Use the FHWA nomographs. For instance, see the PE Handbook PP. 372-373. These nomographs
determine the headwater depth for various culverts. Note that the 3 entrance types provide different
headwater/depth ratios.
I) Use concrete culvert nomograph (pp. 372)

II) Considering D = 32 in., Q = 90 cfs, and groove end entrance (#2), determine the headwater
depth over diameter ratio from the corresponding nomograph (connect the points of the
nomograph):
𝐻𝑊 32
= 3.6 → HW = 3.6 × 12 = 9.6 ft
𝐷
III) Determine the design water surface elevation adding the headwater depth to the upstream
elevation:
221 + 9.6 = 230.6 ft
IV) The required vertical clearance (elevation) between the roadway and the design water surface
is:
239 - 230.6 = 8.4 ft
Note: Download the PE handbook and examine different sections of it, especially those sections related to
the PM field you are taking the exam in.

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 40- A public fund of $3 million is established for a 10-year project. If the fund yields 4% interest
annually, the fund value at the end of the project term will be most nearly:
A. $2.5 million
B. $3 million
C. $4.5 million
D. $7.9 million

Solution:
Answer C.
Compute the future value from the present value using the tables like the PE handbook tables (pp. 40-46)
or the equation shown below:
𝐹 𝐹
𝐹 = 𝑃 × (𝑃 , 𝑖%, 𝑛) = 3 × (𝑃 , 4%, 10) = 3 × (1 + 0.04)10= $4.44 million.

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