How are cut and fill defined in earthwork?

• A. Cut is used for trenches; fill is for embankments
• B. Cut and fill refer to drainage features
• C. Cut is material removed to reach design grade; fill is material added to raise ground to design grade
• D. Cut is material added; fill is material removed

Answer: (C)

In earthwork, cut and fill describe how the ground is changed to meet the design grade. Cut means material is removed to reach the target elevation, while fill means material is added to raise the ground up to that elevation. So when the existing surface sits higher than the design grade, you cut to bring it down. When it sits lower, you fill to bring it up. Engineers also consider balancing cut and fill to minimize hauling and material movement.