Which of the following best describes the requirements for formwork for cast-in-place concrete?

The requirement that formwork for cast-in-place concrete must support all anticipated vertical and lateral loads is crucial for ensuring the safety and stability of the structure during the curing phase. When concrete is poured, it is in a liquid state and exerts significant pressure on the formwork due to its weight. Proper formwork design must account for this pressure as well as any additional loads resulting from the weight of workers, equipment, or other materials that might be on the formwork.

Supporting all vertical loads involves ensuring that the form can hold the weight of the fresh concrete without collapsing. Additionally, lateral loads can come from factors such as wind or vibration. If the formwork fails to support these loads adequately, it can lead to deformations, ruptures, or even catastrophic failure, severely compromising the integrity of the concrete pour.

While the other choices touch on important aspects of formwork, like ease of handling and moisture retention, they do not address the fundamental necessity of supporting the concrete and any other loads effectively. Therefore, the answer that emphasizes the need for formwork to withstand all expected loads accurately captures the primary and most critical requirement in formwork design for cast-in-place concrete.