Pick up the correct statement from the following: A. Lateral reinforcement in R.C.C. columns is provided to prevent the longitudinal reinforcement from buckling B. Lateral reinforcement prevents the shearing of concrete on diagonal plane C. Lateral reinforcement stops breaking away of concrete cover, due to buckling D. All the above

The correct answer is D. All the above.

Lateral reinforcement in R.C.C. columns is provided to prevent the longitudinal reinforcement from buckling, prevent the shearing of concrete on diagonal plane, and stop breaking away of concrete cover, due to buckling.

Buckling is the tendency of a slender column to bend and collapse under its own weight. Lateral reinforcement helps to prevent buckling by providing a lateral support for the longitudinal reinforcement.

Shear is a force that acts parallel to the surface of a material. Shearing of concrete on diagonal plane is a common failure mode in R.C.C. columns. Lateral reinforcement helps to prevent shearing by providing a shear resistance.

Concrete cover is the layer of concrete that surrounds the reinforcement. It protects the reinforcement from corrosion and provides a bond between the reinforcement and the concrete. Lateral reinforcement helps to prevent the breaking away of concrete cover, due to buckling, by providing a lateral support for the concrete cover.