2. Soil Compressibility

Try these first

1. 1.

   Define compressibility in soil.

   Hint

   It relates to how the soil changes under pressure.

2. 2.

   What does Terzaghi's analogy help to explain?

   Hint

   Think of the model with springs and water.

3. 3.

   What does the term 'compressibility' refer to?

   • The ability of soil to absorb water
   • The capacity of soil to decrease in volume under load
   • The strength of soil compared to other materials

   Hint

   Think about the effects of weight on soil.

4. 4.

   True or False: Clay compresses instantly like sand when loaded.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider how quickly each soil type responds under load.

5. 5.

   A targeted study on a clay deposit shows that it requires 10 days for a load to reach about 90% consolidation. How does this influence site preparation for a new building?

   Hint

   Consider the implications of constructing before full consolidation.

6. 6.

   Design a simple experiment using Terzaghi's model to demonstrate both rapid (sand) and slow (clay) compressibility under identical loads.

   Hint

   Think about how to measure and document compression over time.