36.1.2.5. Structure and compaction

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is permeability in relation to soil?

   Hint

   Think about how water moves through different types of soil.

2. 2.

   Name a factor that affects soil permeability.

   Hint

   Consider what happens to water flow with very small vs. larger particles.

3. 3.

   What does permeability depend on?

   • Grain size
   • Water viscosity
   • Both A and B

   Hint

   Think about how water moves through sand versus syrup.

4. 4.

   True or False: Compaction increases soil permeability.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   If you imagine squeezing soil, what happens to the gaps where water can flow?

5. 5.

   Calculate the permeability of a soil sample if the flow occurs at 2 m/s and the cross-sectional area is 1 m². What is the hydraulic gradient if the head difference is 4 meters?

   Hint

   What will you do with the flow rate and head difference?

6. 6.

   Discuss why understanding compaction is important for groundwater management in urban development.

   Hint

   Consider what happens in areas with high-density construction compared to open fields.