1.2. Effect of Stress History

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is preconsolidation pressure?

   Hint

   Think of it as a peak stress point in the soil's history.

2. 2.

   Define normally consolidated soils.

   Hint

   Consider the history of stress the soil has experienced.

3. 3.

   What is preconsolidation pressure?

   • The current stress
   • The maximum historical stress
   • The average stress

   Hint

   Focus on what the soil has endured over time.

4. 4.

   If a soil has never experienced a vertical effective stress greater than its current state, it is called a(n):

   • Over Consolidated Soil
   • Under Consolidated Soil
   • Normally Consolidated Soil

   Hint

   Refer back to the definitions earlier in the section.

5. 5.

   A site is being prepared for a new skyscraper. The soil tests reveal that it is under consolidated. Outline the steps an engineer would take to ensure the structure's stability.

   Hint

   Think about the implications of building on unstable soil.

6. 6.

   Explain how the knowledge of a soil's consolidation state would change the depth of foundation required for a heavy industrial load.

   Hint

   Consider how weight interacts with soil types.