Which statement about mineral aggregate proportions is correct?

• A. It comprises 50% to 60% of mixture weight.
• B. It comprises 90% to 96% of mixture weight and 82% to 88% of the aggregate volume.
• C. It comprises 10% of the mixture weight and 20% of volume.
• D. It constitutes 100% of the mixture.

Answer: (B)

In asphalt mixtures, the mineral aggregate is the dominant component. By weight, the aggregate typically makes up about 90% to 96% of the mix, since aggregates are dense and heavy while the binder adds only a small fraction by weight. By volume, the aggregate occupies roughly 82% to 88% of the total mix volume, with the remaining volume taken by the asphalt binder and air voids. This combination explains why the statement about these proportions is correct. Other options would imply too little aggregate by weight or volume, or claim there’s no binder or voids, which doesn’t match how asphalt concrete is designed.