36.3. Site Characterization

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is the purpose of a geotechnical investigation?

   Hint

   Think about why engineers need to know about the ground below them.

2. 2.

   Name one type of soil classification used in seismic design.

   Hint

   Refer back to what you remember about different soil types.

3. 3.

   Which test is commonly used for determining soil properties?

   • Standard Penetration Test
   • Tension Test
   • Compression Test

   Hint

   Think about the tests you've learned that involve sampling soil.

4. 4.

   True or False: Site Class E indicates hard rock.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Recall the definitions of the site classes.

5. 5.

   Calculate the shear modulus of a soil layer with a known density of 18 kN/m³ and a cohesion of 30 kPa. How will this influence the design of a structure?

   Hint

   Remember the relationship between cohesion and shear strength.

6. 6.

   Discuss the impact of varying dynamic soil properties on structural design during an earthquake scenario. Provide a case example.

   Hint

   Consider how structures rooted in different soil types would react differently.