Is the statement "Concrete is strong in compression" true or false?

The statement "Concrete is strong in compression" is true because concrete is a building material that has excellent compressive strength, allowing it to withstand large amounts of pressure and force applied to it without crumbling or breaking apart. This property makes concrete an ideal choice for structural applications such as foundations, beams, and slabs, where it primarily experiences compressive loads.

Concrete achieves this strength due to its composition, which typically includes cement, water, aggregates (like sand and gravel), and sometimes additives that can enhance its properties. When mixed and cured properly, concrete can develop high compressive strength, often exceeding 3,000 psi (pounds per square inch) and reaching much higher values based on the specific mix and design.

In contrast, while concrete does have some tensile strength, it is relatively weak in tension compared to its compressive strength. This is why structural engineers often use reinforcement, such as steel rebar, to provide additional tensile strength in concrete structures.