Which concept is the 'nominal maximum size' associated with in material sampling?

• A. The smallest particle size allowed
• B. The average particle size
• C. The largest particle size allowed in the sample
• D. The median particle size

Answer: (C)

Nominal maximum size is about the upper limit of particle sizes allowed in the grading. It defines the largest particle size that may be present in the aggregate mix, setting the top bound for the material’s size distribution. This is not about the average, median, or the smallest size. In practice, knowing the nominal maximum size helps determine which sieve openings to use and how the aggregate will pack and compact in the asphalt mixture. For example, if the nominal maximum size is 1 inch, the material should not contain particles larger than 1 inch, and the gradation is described with that upper limit in mind. The actual largest particle in a given sample may be equal to or smaller than this specification, but the nominal maximum size represents the maximum size permitted by the design or spec.