This load combination is only applicable for tensile stresses in prestressed concrete columns, with the intent to control cracking.

• A. Service II
• B. Service IV
• C. Strength I Load Combination
• D. Extreme Event I

Answer: (B)

The main idea is using a service-level load combination that specifically targets tensile stresses to check cracking in prestressed concrete columns. Cracking occurs when the concrete near the tensioned face experiences tension, so engineers use the designated service combination that produces the largest tensile stress to see if crack widths stay within limits. This combination is intended only for situations where tension exists, guiding crack control rather than other serviceability concerns. Other service combinations are meant for different checks—general serviceability under typical loading, ultimateStrength checks, or extreme-event scenarios—and aren’t used to govern cracking under tensile conditions. That focused purpose is why the correct choice is the tensile-cracking service combination.