1.8. Stresses

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is shear strength?

   Hint

   Think about the sliding forces acting upon the soil.

2. 2.

   Define cohesion in soil mechanics.

   Hint

   Consider how particles stick together.

3. 3.

   What is the definition of shear strength?

   • The resistance to sliding forces
   • The weight of soil
   • The density of soil

   Hint

   Focus on what relates to sliding.

4. 4.

   True or False: Cohesion contributes to the shear strength of soil.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider how particles hold together.

5. 5.

   A slope with a height of 10 m and a base width of 5 m fails due to shear stress. Given the shear strength is 25 kPa, calculate the maximum mass of soil that could remain before failure occurs.

   Hint

   Consider using the weight equation and compare it with shear stress evaluation.

6. 6.

   A soil sample has a cohesion of 20 kPa and an internal friction angle of 45 degrees. Calculate the shear strength when the normal stress is 50 kPa.

   Hint

   Make sure to plug in the values correctly.