What type of pavement issue can a straight edge help identify?

A straight edge is a tool used in paving to help evaluate the surface smoothness of a pavement. Its primary function is to identify variations or irregularities in the surface profile, which is referred to as surface roughness. When placed against the pavement, a straight edge allows for the detection of bumps, depressions, or any other deformities that could affect vehicle dynamics and comfort. A smooth pavement surface is essential for maintaining safe driving conditions and effective drainage, making the identification of surface roughness critical during the paving quality assessment.

Color inconsistencies, while visible, do not typically affect the functional performance of the pavement. Temperature fluctuations relate to material handling and placement but are not something a straight edge can detect. Structural integrity is assessed through different methods, such as core sampling or visual inspection for cracking, which are beyond the capacity of a straight edge. Thus, using a straight edge primarily aids in identifying surface roughness, which is essential for achieving a high-quality pavement finish.