2.8.1. Expansive Soils

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is expansive soil?

   Hint

   Think about how certain soils change with water.

2. 2.

   Give an example of where expansive soils might be found.

   Hint

   Consider soils used in agricultural settings.

3. 3.

   What happens to expansive soils when they become wet?

   • They shrink
   • They swell
   • They stay the same

   Hint

   Think about a sponge absorbing water.

4. 4.

   True or False: Expansive soils only affect rigid pavements.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider how soils interact with different structures.

5. 5.

   You have a construction site that needs to be built on expansive soil. List the steps you would take to ensure the stability of the pavement structure.

   Hint

   Think about how to prevent moisture-related challenges.

6. 6.

   Analyze the long-term effects of ignoring expansive soil on a newly constructed roadway. What issues may arise scientifically and financially?

   Hint

   Consider both technical and economic perspectives.