Bituminous materials identification: Match bitumen's physical state to its common naming in civil engineering materials—solid, semi-fluid, and fluid—used for roads and waterproofing applications.

Introduction / Context:

Civil engineers frequently encounter bituminous binders in different physical forms depending on temperature and processing. Recognizing the conventional names associated with each state helps in selecting materials for paving, damp-proofing, and crack sealing.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• ‘‘Bitumen’’ broadly covers hydrocarbon binders obtained from petroleum and natural sources.
• Conventional classroom terminology associates states with legacy names.
• Focus is on generic naming used in many MCQs and handbooks.

Concept / Approach:

In many traditional texts, solid bitumen used for paving is generically called asphalt (natural or petroleum asphalt). Semi-fluid forms—historically produced from coal or petroleum distillates—are termed mineral tar. Very fluid hydrocarbons in the bituminous family are often linked to petroleum fractions. Though modern specifications distinguish between petroleum bitumen and coal tar, the question follows the conventional mapping and therefore invites the combined choice ‘‘all the above.’’

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Older road-materials references list asphalt (solid paving grade), mineral tar (semi-fluid), and petroleum (fluid) as state descriptors, despite today’s finer specification (penetration/viscosity grades, cutbacks, and emulsions).

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Selecting only one pairing omits the remaining correct associations, while the item expects the full set.
• Coal-tar pitch (fluid) is inaccurate; pitch is typically more viscous/solid at ambient conditions.

Common Pitfalls:

• Confusing modern specification language with legacy teaching terms; this question uses the latter.
• Mixing coal-tar and petroleum-asphalt terminology indiscriminately.

Final Answer:

all the above