Soil Mechanics

Description: Test your knowledge on Soil Mechanics, a branch of Geotechnical Engineering that deals with the behavior of soil as an engineering material.
Number of Questions: 15
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Tags: soil mechanics geotechnical engineering civil engineering
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What is the term used to describe the weight of soil per unit volume?

  1. Bulk Density

  2. Dry Density

  3. Saturated Density

  4. Specific Gravity


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Bulk Density is the weight of soil per unit volume, including both solids and voids.

Which soil classification system is widely used in the United States?

  1. Unified Soil Classification System (USCS)

  2. American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Soil Classification System

  3. British Standard Soil Classification System

  4. International Society for Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering (ISSMGE) Soil Classification System


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The Unified Soil Classification System (USCS) is the most widely used soil classification system in the United States. It is based on the soil's texture, plasticity, and gradation.

What is the process of compacting soil to increase its density and strength?

  1. Compaction

  2. Consolidation

  3. Shearing

  4. Permeability


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Compaction is the process of increasing the density of soil by applying mechanical energy. This can be done using various methods, such as rolling, tamping, or vibrating.

What is the term used to describe the ability of soil to drain water?

  1. Permeability

  2. Infiltration

  3. Capillary Action

  4. Adsorption


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Permeability is the ability of soil to allow water to flow through it. It is influenced by factors such as soil texture, structure, and density.

Which soil property is responsible for its ability to resist deformation under load?

  1. Shear Strength

  2. Compressibility

  3. Permeability

  4. Specific Gravity


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Shear Strength is the ability of soil to resist deformation under load. It is influenced by factors such as soil type, density, and moisture content.

What is the term used to describe the gradual settlement of soil under sustained load?

  1. Consolidation

  2. Compaction

  3. Permeability

  4. Adsorption


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Consolidation is the gradual settlement of soil under sustained load. It is caused by the expulsion of water from the soil pores.

Which soil type is known for its high plasticity and low permeability?

  1. Sand

  2. Silt

  3. Clay

  4. Gravel


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Clay is a soil type known for its high plasticity and low permeability. It is composed of very fine particles that have a high surface area.

What is the process of removing water from soil to reduce its moisture content?

  1. Evaporation

  2. Transpiration

  3. Drainage

  4. Desiccation


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Desiccation is the process of removing water from soil to reduce its moisture content. This can be done through evaporation, transpiration, or drainage.

Which soil property is responsible for its ability to hold water?

  1. Specific Gravity

  2. Porosity

  3. Permeability

  4. Capillary Action


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Capillary Action is the ability of soil to hold water against the force of gravity. It is caused by the attraction between water molecules and soil particles.

What is the term used to describe the angle at which a soil can withstand a shearing force without collapsing?

  1. Angle of Repose

  2. Angle of Internal Friction

  3. Cohesion

  4. Shear Strength


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Angle of Internal Friction is the angle at which a soil can withstand a shearing force without collapsing. It is influenced by factors such as soil type, density, and moisture content.

Which soil type is known for its high permeability and low plasticity?

  1. Sand

  2. Silt

  3. Clay

  4. Gravel


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Sand is a soil type known for its high permeability and low plasticity. It is composed of relatively large particles that have a low surface area.

What is the process of adding water to soil to increase its moisture content?

  1. Infiltration

  2. Evaporation

  3. Transpiration

  4. Irrigation


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Irrigation is the process of adding water to soil to increase its moisture content. This can be done through various methods, such as flooding, sprinkling, or drip irrigation.

Which soil property is responsible for its ability to resist erosion?

  1. Cohesion

  2. Angle of Internal Friction

  3. Permeability

  4. Capillary Action


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Cohesion is the ability of soil to resist erosion. It is caused by the attraction between soil particles.

What is the term used to describe the process of soil formation?

  1. Weathering

  2. Erosion

  3. Deposition

  4. Pedogenesis


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Pedogenesis is the process of soil formation. It involves the physical, chemical, and biological weathering of rocks and minerals to form soil.

Which soil type is known for its high organic matter content and dark color?

  1. Sand

  2. Silt

  3. Clay

  4. Organic Soil


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Organic Soil is a soil type known for its high organic matter content and dark color. It is formed from the decomposition of plant and animal matter.

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