5. Soil Classification
A formal system for soil classification and description is critical for understanding materials in ground investigations. Differentiating between soil description, which outlines physical characteristics, and classification, which organizes soil by properties, enhances communication among engineers. Key methods for measuring soil particle sizes include wet sieving, dry sieve analysis, and sedimentation analysis, which help generate essential grading curves for soil characterization.
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What we have learnt
- Soil description and classification are distinct yet complementary processes.
- Soil classification relies on particle size distribution and plasticity.
- Grain-size distribution curves provide insights into soil characteristics and behavior.
Key Concepts
- -- Soil Description
- A statement about the physical nature and state of soil based on visual examination and tests.
- -- Soil Classification
- The process of grouping soils into classes based on their mechanical properties such as permeability, stiffness, and strength.
- -- GrainSize Distribution Curve
- A graphical representation of the particle size distribution of soil, clarifying the range and uniformity of particles present.
- -- Effective Size (D10)
- The particle size at which 10% of the soil sample is finer by weight.
- -- Uniformity Coefficient (Cu)
- A measure of the gradation of soil; Cu > 5 indicates well-graded soil.
- -- Curvature Coefficient (Cc)
- A factor indicating the curvature of the grading curve; used alongside Cu to describe soil gradation.
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