1.1. Assumptions

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is the definition of saturated soil?

   Hint

   Think about what saturation means in a liquid context.

2. 2.

   What does it mean for a soil to be isotropic?

   Hint

   Consider how isotropy applies to symmetry.

3. 3.

   What is Darcy's Law mainly concerned with?

   • Fluid flow in porous media
   • Soil weight
   • Soil temperature
   • Soil expansion

   Hint

   Remember that Darcy's law deals specifically with flow.

4. 4.

   True or False: The coefficient of permeability is assumed to change during consolidation.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider the assumptions made in the theory.

5. 5.

   Given a soil stratum with varying loads and permeability, evaluate the expected excess pore water pressure distribution.

   Hint

   Break it down by layers and apply the formula for effective stress.

6. 6.

   Design a simple experiment to measure the degree of consolidation over time and discuss the findings.

   Hint

   Consider the principle of drainage.