The drill bit should be perpendicular to the pavement when cutting the core.

• A. Not Stated
• B. True
• C. False
• D. Not Applicable

Answer: (C)

The most important idea here is that the drill bit orientation affects the shape and integrity of the core. A straight, true core is produced when the bit axis runs as close to normal (perpendicular) to the pavement surface as practical, giving vertical, smooth sidewalls and a clean cylindrical sample.

The statement is not accurate as written because, in practice, you often start the hole with a slight lead angle to help the bit bite into the surface without grabbing or tearing. Once the entry is established, you realign the drill to near-perpendicular to continue cutting the core. So while you aim for a perpendicular orientation for a good core, it isn’t required to stay perfectly perpendicular throughout the entire cut, which is why the statement is considered false.