Construction Coordinator Practice Exam

Which equipment may be required to remove a very large rock during trenching?

1. Jackhammer

2. Excavator

3. Backhoe

4. Bulldozer

The correct answer is: Backhoe

In the context of removing a very large rock during trenching, a backhoe is particularly well-suited for this task due to its versatility and digging power. Backhoes are equipped with a front loader bucket for moving dirt and a rear digging arm that can be used to lift and dig into the earth. This dual functionality makes backhoes capable of not only excavating soil but also handling large rocks, especially when they are partially buried or need to be pried from the ground. While jackhammers are primarily used for breaking concrete or asphalt and may not be effective for large rock removal, excavators also have significant capabilities for moving heavy materials but are generally larger and might be used in different contexts where greater lifting power and reach are required. Bulldozers are effective for pushing and moving large amounts of earth but are less adept at precise removal of isolated rocks compared to a backhoe. In summary, the backhoe's ability to dig, lift, and maneuver makes it a practical choice for removing large rocks during trenching operations.