Construction Supervisor License Practice Exam

What is a kip?

1. A chase for HVAC ducts

2. An insulation permeability factor

3. A structural steel deflection ratio

4. One thousand pounds

The correct answer is: One thousand pounds

A kip is a unit of force that is equivalent to one thousand pounds. It is commonly used in engineering and construction to quantify loads and forces in structural design. The term "kip" is particularly favored in the field of civil engineering, as it allows for a convenient expression of large force values without resorting to cumbersome numbers. In structural analysis, engineers often encounter various loads, such as dead loads (permanent/static) and live loads (temporary/movable), measured in kips for simplicity and efficiency. Understanding this unit is essential when interpreting forces acting on structures, as well as when performing calculations related to load-bearing capacities, material strengths, and structural integrity. The other options do not accurately define a "kip." For instance, a chase for HVAC ducts refers to a space or passage designed for these systems, which is unrelated to force measurement. An insulation permeability factor pertains to the effectiveness of insulation materials rather than a unit of force. A structural steel deflection ratio is a way to measure deflection relative to the dimensions of a structural element, but does not represent a weight measurement like a kip does.