What does the compressive strength of concrete measure?

The compressive strength of concrete specifically measures its ability to withstand axial loads without failure. This means how much load the concrete can support when it is being pushed or pulled along its vertical axis. In structural applications, concrete is primarily used in compression, such as in columns, walls, and foundations. The compressive strength is critical because it helps determine how much weight the concrete can bear before it begins to crack or fail.

Other options relate to different properties of concrete. The ability to withstand lateral loads pertains to shear strength and structural stability when forces act sideways, rather than through the vertical axis. Resistance to weathering involves durability properties related to erosion, freeze-thaw cycles, and chemical attack, which are not directly measured by compressive strength. Lastly, bonding with other materials relates to adhesion and interface properties rather than the fundamental strength of concrete itself under compressive loads. Thus, it is clear that the measurement of compressive strength is a specific evaluation of how well concrete can handle forces applied directly to its mass in a vertical direction.