Which test is commonly used to assess the workability of fresh concrete?

The slump test is widely used to determine the workability of fresh concrete. Workability refers to how easy it is to handle and place concrete during construction, which is crucial for achieving good compaction and finishing. The slump test involves filling a conical mold with fresh concrete, then lifting the mold vertically to allow the concrete to settle and form a "slump." The height of the resulting slump is measured, which indicates the fluidity and workability of the concrete mixture. A higher slump suggests that the concrete is more workable, making it easier to place and finish.

Other tests, such as the compression test and flexural test, are designed to evaluate the strength of cured concrete rather than its workability. The density test provides information about the mass per unit volume of concrete, which also does not directly relate to workability. Thus, the slump test is the most applicable method for assessing how easily fresh concrete can be manipulated on the job site.