How does weather influence asphalt paving operations?

The correct answer highlights that temperature, humidity, and precipitation significantly impact various aspects of asphalt paving, influencing both thermal performance and the curing process of the asphalt.

During the paving process, temperature plays a critical role because asphalt needs to be at a specific temperature range to ensure it remains workable and achieves proper compaction. If the temperature is too low, the asphalt may cool prematurely, leading to issues with bonding and density. Conversely, high temperatures can lead to excessive softening, making it difficult to achieve a compacted surface.

Humidity affects the viscosity of asphalt and can also influence its evaporation rate. High humidity can help maintain asphalt workability by slowing down evaporation, whereas low humidity can lead to faster evaporation, potentially causing problems with the curing process and surface finish.

Precipitation presents a more immediate concern, as rain can compromise the integrity of fresh asphalt. If rain occurs during or shortly after paving, it can wash away the finer particles, leading to defects and surface irregularities.

In contrast, while humidity alone is important, it does not encompass the full range of weather factors that affect asphalt paving. The notion that weather has no effect disregards the critical environmental variables that directly impact the outcome of paving operations. Similarly, while wind can influence the cooling