Which is a common type of distress found in asphalt pavement?

Cracking is indeed a common type of distress found in asphalt pavement. It generally occurs due to thermal expansion and contraction, heavy traffic loads, or inadequate structural support. Over time, as the pavement undergoes these stresses, it can develop various forms of cracking, such as transverse cracks or longitudinal cracks.

Understanding the types of cracking is essential because they can indicate underlying issues with the pavement’s materials or design. Cracking can lead to further deterioration if not addressed, allowing water to penetrate through the surface and subsequently weaken the base materials.

While the other options like rutting and flushing are also recognized types of distress, they relate more specifically to particular conditions. For example, rutting primarily refers to the permanent deformation of the wheel paths due to traffic loading, while flushing is a condition where excessive asphalt binder at the surface can lead to a glossy appearance and reduced skid resistance. Alligator cracking, on the other hand, is a specific pattern of interconnected cracks that resemble an alligator's skin, indicating structural failure. Each of these types is significant, but general cracking encompasses the broader range of distress issues that can affect asphalt pavements.