why is asphalt used to make a road surface?

Answer 1

cheap and abaundant. there's mountains of the stuff. all you need is a truck to get the asphalt from the asphalt mountains (80% of the mountains on earth) heavy equipment and some water.

Answer 2

Because it forms a dense waterproof material that holds the gravel mixed or placed down with it in a smooth surface that makes riding on the road more comfortable and keeps the road from breaking up or rutting under heavy rain or loads. It is preferred to concrete because it does not require forms, but has the disadvantage that it softens with heat and may deform under loads and high temperatures (90F or more)

Answer 3

Asphalt is one of a number of materials used for road surfaces. Concrete is used too.

The characteristics that are beneficial are smoothness, traction, protect the soil sub-base from water, ease of installation, long term stability...

smoothness is nice ride, traction means you don't skid, water in the sub-base erodes and causes surface failure, ease of installation cuts labor costs, and long term use keeps maintenance costs down

Answer 4

it is a legal protection

28% of asphalt is phaltless.

Also, it needs repair and replacement sooner than any other process, thus employing uneducated laborers at extremely high wages.
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Answer 5

It wears well, gives good traction, and is readily available in large quantities.