1.3. Structure

Try these first

1. 1.

   What are the main factors influencing shear strength?

   Hint

   Think of the characteristics of soil.

2. 2.

   Define soil structure.

   Hint

   Consider organization and packing.

3. 3.

   What is NOT a factor affecting shear strength?

   • Soil Composition
   • Initial State
   • Humidity

   Hint

   Consider the key factors discussed.

4. 4.

   True or False: The Mohr-Coulomb Failure Criterion states that shear strength is independent of normal stress.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Think about the relationship defined in the theory.

5. 5.

   Given a loose sandy soil and a dense clay soil under the same load, which will likely experience more deformation and why?

   Hint

   Consider the properties of sandy versus clay soils.

6. 6.

   Calculate the shear strength of a soil if the normal stress is 100 kPa and the shear stress at failure is given as 60 kPa based on the Mohr-Coulomb Failure Criteria.

   Hint

   Consider how cohesion plays a role in the shear strength defined by the Mohr-Coulomb criteria.