1.2. Shear Strength

Try these first

1. 1.

   Define shear strength in your own words.

   Hint

   Think about how different materials can stick to one another.

2. 2.

   What are the two main components of shear strength?

   Hint

   One is about binding, and the other is about how particles interact.

3. 3.

   What defines shear strength?

   • A: The ability to bear weight
   • B: The ability to resist sliding
   • C: The ability to be compacted

   Hint

   Focus on what happens when forces are applied tangentially.

4. 4.

   Cohesion is a stress-independent component of shear strength.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Think about whether the bonds in the soil change when pressure is applied.

5. 5.

   A slope of soil is found to have a cohesion of 10 kPa and a friction angle of 25 degrees. How would a sudden increase in moisture content likely affect its stability?

   Hint

   Consider how moisture alters particle interaction.

6. 6.

   Explain why knowing the angle of repose is important in the design of structures on slopes.

   Hint

   Think of how steeper slopes could pose danger.