Construction Supervisor License Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Exam Prep Guide

A magnetic particle test is primarily used to detect surface and near-surface discontinuities in ferromagnetic materials, notably in steel welds. This non-destructive testing method involves applying ferrous particles to the test surface after inducing a magnetic field. When there are discontinuities, such as cracks or voids, the particles will cluster at these flaws, revealing their presence. This makes it particularly valuable in ensuring the integrity of welds, which are crucial components in various structures.

The other options focus on different applications unrelated to the magnetic particle test. For example, testing the fit-up of bolted structural members involves measuring alignment and clearance, while the alignment of structural steel laser cutters concerns precision in cutting rather than evaluating material integrity. The surveyor's focus on the true north setting is specific to mapping and navigation, not material testing. Therefore, option C stands out as the appropriate purpose for a magnetic particle test.