1.3.3. Capillary Rise and Partial Saturation

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is pore water pressure?

   Hint

   Think about water pressure under different levels.

2. 2.

   What does effective stress represent?

   Hint

   Remember the formula: Effective Stress = Total Stress - Pore Water Pressure.

3. 3.

   What does the term pore water pressure refer to?

   • Pressure in the soil due to external loading
   • Pressure exerted by water in soil pores
   • The pressure exerted by air in the soil

   Hint

   Remember the role of water in soil mechanics.

4. 4.

   True or False: Effective stress is equal to total stress plus pore water pressure.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Recall the effective stress formula.

5. 5.

   A soil sample with a total stress of 200 kPa is partly saturated, with pore water pressure measured at 40 kPa. Calculate the effective stress and interpret its significance on bearing capacity.

   Hint

   Apply Terzaghi's principle to find the effective stress.

6. 6.

   Discuss how a drop in the water table due to drought conditions would affect the effective stress in surrounding soil layers.

   Hint

   Consider the relationship between water levels and effective stress.