Scenario:

A civil engineering team is working on a project that involves constructing a durable and aesthetically pleasing structure. They need to carefully choose the right types of stones based on their classifications, properties, and intended uses. The team is considering the following five types of stones:

Granite:

Classification: Igneous Rock Properties: Hard, durable, resistant to weathering Uses: Suitable for foundations, bridge piers, and exterior cladding due to its strength and weather resistance. Marble:

Classification: Metamorphic Rock Properties: Elegant appearance, relatively soft, can be polished Uses: Ideal for interior finishes, decorative elements, and sculptures due to its aesthetic appeal. Sandstone:

Classification: Sedimentary Rock Properties: Varies in hardness, porous Uses: Commonly used for building facades, walls, and pavements; its natural variations add aesthetic value. Limestone:

Classification: Sedimentary Rock Properties: Generally soft, susceptible to weathering Uses: Used for architectural elements, such as columns and balustrades; also for road construction and as aggregate in concrete. Basalt:

Classification: Igneous Rock Properties: Dense, dark-colored, resistant to abrasion Uses: Suitable for road construction, particularly as asphalt aggregates, and for the production of concrete. Multiple Choice Question:

What type of stone would be most suitable for a building's exterior cladding, providing strength and weather resistance?

a) Marble b) Sandstone c) Basalt d) Granite