Compilation in Soil Mechanics

Module 1:
Soil Composition

Situation I. A soil sample taken from the ground has a moisture content of 10% and degree of
saturation of 70%. If its relative density is 2.55.
Given:

%W=8.5%

%S=60%

G.S=2.25
1. Determine its void ratio.
%WG. S
%𝑆 =
e
8.5(2.25)
60 =
𝑒
(8.5)(2.25)
𝑒=
60
𝒆 = 𝟎. 𝟑𝟐
2. What is the sample porosity?
𝑒
𝑛=
1+𝑒
0.32
𝑛=
1 + 0.32
𝒏 = 𝟎. 𝟐𝟒
3. What is the dry density of the soil?
𝐺. 𝑆𝜌𝑤
𝜌𝑑𝑟𝑦 =
1+𝑒
𝑔
2.25(1000 ⁄𝑐𝑚3 )
𝜌𝑑𝑟𝑦 =
1 + 0.32
𝝆𝒅𝒓𝒚 = 𝟏𝟕𝟎𝟒. 𝟓𝟓
4. What is the density of soil?
ρ
𝜌𝑑𝑟𝑦 =
1 + %W
𝜌
1704.55 =
1 + 8.5%
𝝆 = 𝟏𝟖𝟒𝟗. 𝟒𝟒
5. What is the submerged density?
(𝐺. 𝑆 − 1)𝜌𝑤
𝜌𝑠𝑢𝑏 =
1+𝑒
(2.25 − 1)(1000 𝑔⁄ 3 )
𝜌𝑠𝑢𝑏 = 𝑐𝑚
1 + 0.32
𝝆𝒔𝒖𝒃 = 𝟗𝟒𝟔. 𝟗𝟕

II. A soil sample has a dry unit wt. of 15.5 KN/m3 and void of 0.47.
Given:

𝛾𝑑𝑟𝑦 = 15.5

𝑒 = 0.47
6. Determined its specific gravity.
𝐺. 𝑆𝛾𝑤
𝛾𝑑𝑟𝑦 =
1+𝑒
𝐺. 𝑆(9.81 𝐾𝑁⁄𝑚3 )
15.5 =
1 + 0.47
𝑮. 𝑺 = 𝟐. 𝟑𝟐
7. Determine its porosity.
0.47
𝑛=
1 + 0.47
𝒏 = 𝟎. 𝟑𝟐

8. Determine the soil saturated unit weight?

 (𝐺. 𝑆 + 𝑒)𝛾𝑤
𝛾𝑠𝑎𝑡 =
1+𝑒
(2.32 + 0.47)(9.81 𝐾𝑁⁄ 3 )
𝛾𝑠𝑎𝑡 = 𝑚
1 + 0.47
𝜸𝒔𝒂𝒕 = 18.62𝑲𝑵/𝒎𝟑

III. A 140𝑐𝑚3 sample of wet soil has a mass of 210g when 100 percent saturared. When oven-
dried, the mass is 150g.
Given:

𝑉𝑇 = 140𝑐𝑚3
𝑀𝑇 = 210𝑔

%𝑆 = 100%

𝑀𝑠 = 150𝑔
9. Calculate the dry density.
𝑀𝑠
𝜌𝑑𝑟𝑦 =
𝑉𝑡
150𝑔
𝜌𝑑𝑟𝑦 =
140𝑐𝑚3
𝒈
𝝆𝒅𝒓𝒚 = 𝟏. 𝟎𝟕 ⁄ 𝟑
𝒄𝒎
10. Calculate the water content.
𝑀𝑇 − 𝑀𝑆
%𝑊 = × 100
𝑉𝑇
210𝑔 − 150𝑔
%𝑊 = × 100
140𝑐𝑚3
%𝑾 = 𝟒𝟐. 𝟖𝟔
11. Calculate the void ratio.

𝑀𝑊 = 𝑀𝑇 − 𝑀𝑆

𝑀𝑊 = 210𝑔 − 150𝑔

𝑀𝑊 = 60𝑔
𝑀𝑊
𝑉𝑊 =
𝜌𝑊
60𝑔
𝑉𝑊 = 𝑔
1 ⁄𝑐𝑚3

𝑉𝑊 = 60𝑐𝑚3

𝑉𝑆 = 𝑉𝑇 − 𝑉𝑊

𝑉𝑆 = 140𝑐𝑚3 − 60𝑐𝑚3

𝑉𝑆 = 80𝑐𝑚3
𝑉𝑊
𝑒=
𝑉𝑆

60𝑐𝑚3
𝑒=
80𝑐𝑚3
𝒆 = 𝟎. 𝟕𝟓
12. Determine the specific gravity.
𝑀𝑆
𝐺. 𝑆 =
𝑉𝑆 𝜌𝑊
150𝑔
𝐺. 𝑆 =
(80𝑐𝑚3 )(1 𝑔⁄ 3
𝑐𝑚 )

𝑮. 𝑺 = 𝟏.875
13. Determine the soil unit weight.
𝐺. 𝑆𝛾𝑊
𝛾𝑑𝑟𝑦 =
1+𝑒
(1.875)(9.81)
𝛾𝑑𝑟𝑦 =
1 + 0.75

𝛾𝑑𝑟𝑦 = 10.511 𝐾𝑁⁄𝑚3

𝛾 = 𝛾𝑑𝑟𝑦 (1 + %𝑊)

𝛾 = (10.511)(1 + 42.86%)

𝜸 = 𝟏𝟓. 𝟎𝟐
14. What is the soil porosity?
𝑒
𝑛=
1+𝑒
0.75
𝑛=
1 + 0.75
𝒏 = 𝟎. 𝟒𝟑

IV. A soil sample show that the void ratio is 0.32 and the specific gravity of soil solids is 2.50.
Given:

𝑒 = 0.32

𝐺. 𝑆 = 2.50
15. What is the volume of voids?

VT= vv+vs
E= vv/vs , then vv=evs
Gs= ps/pw,then ps = gspw
Ps = ms/vt, so
Gspw = ms/vs.
Vs= gspw/ms
Vt= vv+vs, then Vv = vt-vs
Assume Vs= 1.0
Ps= gspw/( 1+e)

16. Calculate the porosity.

 𝑒
𝑛=
1+𝑒
0.32
𝑛=
1 + 0.32
𝒏 = 𝟎. 𝟐𝟒
17. Determine the water content.

𝑒 = %𝑊(𝐺. 𝑆)

0.32 = %𝑊(2.50)

%𝑾 = 𝟏𝟐. 𝟖
18. Determine whatthe unit weight of soil is.
𝐺. 𝑆𝛾𝑤 (1 + %𝑊)
𝛾𝑤𝑒𝑡 =
1+𝑒
𝑙𝑏𝑓
(2.50)(62.4 ⁄ 3
𝑓𝑡 )(1 + 12.8%)
𝛾𝑤𝑒𝑡 =
1 + 0.32
𝜸𝒘𝒆𝒕 = 𝟏𝟑𝟑. 𝟑𝟏𝒑𝒄𝒇
19. Determine the dry unit weight.

𝛾𝑑𝑟𝑦 = (1 − 𝑛)𝐺. 𝑆𝛾𝑤

𝛾𝑑𝑟𝑦 = (1 − 0.24)(2.40)(9.81 𝐾𝑁⁄𝑚3 )

𝜸𝒅𝒓𝒚 =18.64kpa

20. Calculate the submerge unit weight.

(𝐺. 𝑆 − 1)𝛾𝑤
𝛾𝑠𝑢𝑏 =
1+𝑒
(2.40 − 1)(9.81 𝐾𝑁⁄ 3
𝛾𝑠𝑢𝑏 = 𝑚
1 + 0.32
𝜸𝒔𝒖𝒃 = 𝟏𝟏. 𝟏𝟓𝒌𝒑𝒂
V. A soil sample has a porosity of 0.32, and its relative density is 2.34.
Given:

𝑛 = 0.32

𝐺. 𝑆 = 2.34
21. Calculate its void ratio.
0.32
𝑒=
1 − 0.32
𝒆 = 𝟎. 𝟒𝟕

22. Calculate its dry unit weight,𝐾𝑁⁄𝑚3.

𝛾𝑑𝑟𝑦 = (1 − 𝑛)𝐺. 𝑆𝛾𝑤

𝛾𝑑𝑟𝑦 = (1 − 0.32)(2.34)(9.81 𝐾𝑁⁄𝑚3 )

𝜸𝒅𝒓𝒚 = 𝟏𝟓. 𝟔𝟏 𝑲𝑵⁄ 𝟑

𝒎
23. Determine its saturated unit weight, 𝐾𝑁⁄𝑚3.

𝛾𝑠𝑎𝑡 = [(1 − 𝑛)𝐺. 𝑆 + 𝑛]𝛾𝑤

𝛾𝑠𝑎𝑡 = [(1 − 0.32)2.34 + 0.32](9.81 𝐾𝑁⁄𝑚3 )

𝜸𝒔𝒂𝒕 = 𝟏𝟕. 𝟕𝟒 𝑲𝑵⁄ 𝟑

𝒎
24. Calculate its submerged unit weight,
(2.12 − 1)𝛾𝑤
𝛾𝑠𝑢𝑏 =
1+𝑒
(2.12 − 1)(9.81 𝐾𝑁⁄𝑚3 )
𝛾𝑠𝑢𝑏 =
1 + 0.47

𝜸𝒔𝒖𝒃 = 𝟕. 𝟒𝟕 𝑲𝑵⁄ 𝟑
𝒎

VI. A soil sample weights 2.14 KN with a volume of 0.035𝑚3 , it has a specific gravity of 2.44
and when dried it weighs 1.25 KN.
Given:

𝑊1 = 2.14𝐾𝑁

𝑊2 = 1.25𝐾𝑁

𝑉𝑆 = 0.035𝑚3
G.S =2.44
25. Determine its moisture content.
 𝑊1 − 𝑊2
%𝑊 = × 100
𝑊2
2.18 − 1.55
%𝑊 = × 100
1.55
%𝑾 = 𝟕𝟏. 𝟐

26. Calculate the soil dry unit weight, 𝐾𝑁⁄𝑚3 .

𝑊1 − 𝑊2
𝛾𝑑𝑟𝑦 =
𝑉𝑠
2.18𝐾𝑁 − 1.55𝐾𝑁
𝛾𝑑𝑟𝑦 =
0.025𝑚3
𝜸𝒅𝒓𝒚 = 𝟐𝟓. 𝟒𝟑 𝑲𝑵⁄ 𝟑
𝒎
27. Determine its void ratio.
𝐺. 𝑆𝛾𝑊
𝛾𝑑𝑟𝑦 =
1+𝑒
(2.24)
25.2 𝐾𝑁⁄𝑚3 = (9.81 𝐾𝑁⁄𝑚3 )
1+𝑒
𝒆 = −𝟎. 𝟎𝟓𝟖
28. Calculate its porosity.

𝑒
𝑛=
1+𝑒
−0.128
𝑛=
1 + (−0.128)

𝒏 = −𝟎. 𝟎𝟔𝟐

29. Calculate the soil unit weights in relation its water content, 𝐾𝑁⁄𝑚3 .

𝐺. 𝑆𝛾𝑤 (1 + %𝑊)
𝛾𝑤𝑒𝑡 =
1+𝑒

(2.44) (9.81 𝐾𝑁⁄ 3 ) (1 + 40.65%)

𝑚
𝛾𝑤𝑒𝑡 =
1 + (−0.058)

𝜸𝒘𝒆𝒕 = 𝟑𝟓. 𝟕𝟒 𝑲𝑵⁄ 𝟑

𝒎
30. Calculate its saturation.

𝛾𝑠𝑎𝑡 = [(1 − 𝑛)𝐺. 𝑆 + 𝑛]𝛾𝑤

𝛾𝑠𝑎𝑡 = [(1 − (−0.062)2.44 + (−0.062)] (9.81 𝐾𝑁⁄𝑚3 )

𝜸𝒔𝒂𝒕 = 𝟐𝟒. 𝟖𝟏 𝑲𝑵⁄ 𝟑

𝒎
Module 2:
Soil structures, Index properties and classification.
I. A soil sample has a dry mass of 15.15g and its volume is 5.68cc, its relative density is 2.14, at
the maximum density the void ratio is 0.25, at minimum density the void ratio is 0.7.
Given:

𝑀𝑆 = 15.15

𝑉𝑇 = 8.68𝑐𝑐

𝐺. 𝑆 = 2.14

𝑒min @ 𝜌𝑚𝑎𝑥 = 0.25

𝑒𝑚𝑎𝑥 @ 𝜌𝑚𝑖𝑛 = 0.40

1. Calculate the volume of soil.

𝑀𝑆 = 𝑉𝑆 𝜌𝑊 𝐺. 𝑆
𝑔
15.15𝑔 = 𝑉𝑆 (1 ⁄𝑐𝑚3 ) (2.14)

𝑽𝑺 = 𝟕. 𝟎𝟖
2. Determine its void ratio.

𝑉𝑇 = 𝑉𝑉 + 𝑉𝑆

8.68𝑐𝑐 = 𝑉𝑉 + 7.08𝑐𝑐

𝑉𝑉 = 1.6
𝑉𝑉
𝑒=
𝑉𝑆
1.6𝑐𝑐
𝑒=
7.08𝑐𝑐
𝒆 = 𝟎. 𝟐𝟑
3. What is the shrinkage limit?
𝑒(100)
𝑆𝐿 =
𝐺. 𝑆
(0.23)(100)
𝑆𝐿 =
2.14
𝑺𝑳 = 𝟏𝟎. 𝟕𝟒
4. What was the relative density?
𝑒𝑚𝑎𝑥 − 𝑒
%𝐷𝑅 = (100)
𝑒𝑚𝑎𝑥 − 𝑒min
0.40 − 0.11
%𝐷𝑅 = (100)
0.40 − 0.25
%𝑫𝑹 = 𝟏𝟗𝟑. 𝟑𝟑

II. The soil has a plastic limit of 55 and plasticity index is 20. It mass is 2kg and dry mass
0.45kg.
Given:

𝑃𝐿 = 55

𝑃𝐼 = 20

𝑀𝑇 = 2𝑘𝑔

𝑀𝑆 = 0.45𝑘𝑔
5. What is the liquid limit?

𝑃𝐼 = 𝐿𝐿 − 𝑃𝐿

20 = 𝐿𝐿 − 55

𝑳𝑳 = 𝟕𝟓%
6. Calculate the water content.
𝑀𝑊
%𝑊 = × 100
𝑀𝑠
1−0.45
%𝑊 = 0.45 × 100 %𝑾 =
𝟏𝟐𝟐. 𝟐𝟐
7. Determine the liquidity index.
%𝑊 − 𝑃𝐿
𝐿𝐼 = (100)
𝑃𝐼
122.22 − 55
𝐿𝐼 = (100)
20
𝑳𝑰 = 𝟑𝟑𝟔. 𝟏
III. The laboratory of sand cone method test, sand dry unit weight is 17.37𝐾𝑁⁄𝑚3, weight of
sand to fill the cone is 8.55 N, weight of cone and jar use is 46.30 N, and after use is 25 N,the
weight of moist soil from hole is 34.5 N, its moisture content is 9.55 %.
Given:

𝛾𝑠𝑎𝑛𝑑 = 17.37 𝐾𝑁⁄𝑚3

𝑊𝑠𝑐 = 8.55𝑁
𝑊𝑐𝑗(𝑏) = 46.30𝑁

𝑊𝑐𝑗(𝑎) = 25𝑁

𝑊𝑡 = 34.5𝑁

%𝑊 = 9.55%
8. What is the weight of sand use to fill the hole?

𝑊𝑠ℎ = 𝑊𝑐𝑗(𝑏) − 𝑊𝑐𝑗(𝑎)

𝑊𝑠ℎ = 46.30 − 25

𝑊𝑠ℎ = 21.3

𝑊𝑠𝑓 = 21.3 − 8.55

𝑾𝒔𝒇 = 𝟏𝟐. 𝟕𝟓

9. Calculate the volume of hole,𝑚3 .

𝑊𝑠𝑓
𝑉ℎ =
𝛾𝑠𝑎𝑛𝑑
1𝐾𝑁
21.3𝑁(1000𝑁)
𝑉ℎ =
17.37 𝐾𝑁⁄𝑚3

𝑽𝒉 = 𝟎. 𝟎𝟎𝟏𝟐𝟑𝒄𝒎𝟑
10. Find the dry weight of soil from field.
𝑊𝑡
𝑀𝑠 =
1 + %𝑊
34.5𝑁
𝑊𝑠 =
1 + 9.55%
𝑾𝒔 = 𝟑𝟏. 𝟓𝑵
11. Calculate the dry unit weight of soil, 𝐾𝑁⁄𝑚3.

𝑊𝑠
𝛾𝑑𝑟𝑦 =
𝑉ℎ
1𝐾𝑁
31.5𝑁(1000𝑁)
𝛾𝑑𝑟𝑦 =
0.00123𝑐𝑚3
𝜸𝒅𝒓𝒚 = 𝟐𝟓. 𝟔𝟏 𝑲𝑵⁄ 𝟑
𝒎

IV. The laboratory result of shrinkage state, initial volume at situated state = 25.1 cc, dry state =
18.7 cc, mass at moist condition = 35.5g and dry mass = 25.3g.
Given:

𝑉𝑡 = 𝑉1 = 25.1𝑐𝑐

𝑉𝑠 = 𝑉2 = 18.7𝑐𝑐

𝑀𝑡 = 35.5𝑔

𝑀𝑠 = 25.3𝑔
12. Determine the shrinkage unit.
𝑀𝑡 − 𝑀𝑠 𝑉1 − 𝑉2
𝑆𝑙 = (100) − (100)
𝑀𝑠 𝑀𝑠

35.5𝑔 − 25.3𝑔 25.1𝑐𝑐 − 18.7𝑐𝑐

𝑆𝑙 = (100) − (100)
25.3𝑔 25.3𝑔

𝑺𝒍 = 𝟒𝟎. 𝟎𝟔
13. Determine the soil relative density.
𝑀𝑠
𝑉𝑡
𝐺. 𝑆 =
𝜌𝑤
25.3𝑔
25.1𝑐𝑐
𝐺. 𝑆 = 𝑔
1 ⁄𝑐𝑐

𝑮. 𝑺 = 𝟏. 𝟎𝟏
14. Determine its saturation.

𝑉𝑣 = 𝑉𝑡 − 𝑉𝑠

𝑉𝑣 = 25.1𝑐𝑐 − 18.7𝑐𝑐

𝑉𝑣 = 6.4𝑐𝑐
𝑀𝑡 − 𝑀𝑠
𝑉𝑤 =
𝜌𝑤

35.5𝑔 − 25.3𝑔
𝑉𝑤 = 𝑔
1 ⁄𝑐𝑐

𝑉𝑤 = 10.2𝑐𝑐
𝑉𝑤
%𝑆 = (100)
𝑉𝑣
10.2𝑐𝑐
%𝑆 = (100)
6.4𝑐𝑐
%𝑺 = 𝟏𝟓𝟗. 𝟑𝟕

15. Calculate its buoyant unit weight, , 𝐾𝑁⁄𝑚3.

𝑉𝑣
𝑒=
𝑉𝑠
6.4𝑐𝑐
𝑒=
18.7𝑐𝑐
𝑒 = 0.34
(𝐺. 𝑆 − 1)[𝑒(1 − %𝑆)
𝛾𝑏 = (𝛾𝑤 )
1+𝑒

(1.01 − 1)[0.34(1 − 1.5937)

𝛾𝑏 = (9.81)
1 + 0.34
𝜸𝒃 = −𝟎. 𝟎𝟏𝟓
16. Calculate the air void ratio.
𝑀𝑤 𝑀𝑡 − 𝑀𝑠
%𝑊 = =( ) 𝑥100
𝑀𝑠 𝑀𝑠
35.5 − 25.3
%𝑊 = ( ) 𝑥100
25.3
%𝑊 = 40.32
𝑒 − %𝑊(𝐺. 𝑆)
𝛼𝑒 =
1+𝑒
0.34 − 40.32(1.01)
𝛼𝑒 =
1 + 0.34
𝒂𝒆 = −𝟎. 𝟎𝟓

V. A compaction mould having a mass of 5520g and volume of 830cc, the mass of mouldw/ soil
in loose condition = 6245g, mass of mould filled w/ compacted soil is 9077g. The dry density of
soil sites is 1.72g/cc w/ the specific gravity of 4.33.
Given:

𝑀𝑚 = 5520𝑔

𝑉𝑐 = 830𝑐𝑐
𝑀𝑚𝑠(𝐿) = 6245𝑔

𝑀𝑚𝑠(𝐶) = 9077𝑔
𝑔
𝛾𝑑𝑟𝑦 = 1.72 ⁄𝑐𝑐

𝐺. 𝑆 = 4.33

17. Calculate the minimum bulk density of soil, g/cc.

𝑀𝑚𝑠(𝐿) − 𝑀𝑚
𝜌𝑚𝑖𝑛 = ( )
𝑉𝑐
6245 − 5520
𝜌𝑚𝑖𝑛 = ( )
830
𝝆𝒎𝒊𝒏 = 𝟎. 𝟖𝟕
18. Calculate the maximum bulk densiy of soil, g/cc.
𝑀𝑚𝑠(𝐶) − 𝑀𝑚
𝜌𝑚𝑎𝑥 = ( )
𝑉𝑐
9077 − 5520
𝜌𝑚𝑎𝑥 = ( )
830
𝝆𝒎𝒂𝒙 = 𝟒. 𝟐𝟗

19. Calculate the minimum void ratio at dense condition.

𝜌𝑚𝑎𝑥
G. S. − ( )
ρw
𝑒𝑚𝑖𝑛 = ( )
𝜌𝑚𝑎𝑥
( )−1
ρw

4.29
4.33 − ( 1g )
cc
𝑒𝑚𝑖𝑛 =
4.29
( 1g )−1
( cc )
𝒆𝒎𝒊𝒏 = 𝟎. 𝟎𝟏𝟐
20. Calculate the maximum ratio at loose sate.
𝜌𝑚𝑖𝑛
G. S. − ( )
γw
emax = ( )
𝜌𝑚𝑖𝑛
( )−1
γw

0.87
4.33 − ( 1g )
cc
emax =
0.87
( 1g )−1
( cc )

emax = ̶ 28.97

21. Determine the void ratio @ natural state.

 G. S. −ρw
𝛾𝑑𝑟𝑦 = ( )
1+𝑒
1g
𝑔 4.33 − cc
1.72 ⁄𝑐𝑐 =
1+𝑒
𝒆 = 𝟎. 𝟗𝟒
22. Find the degree of relative density of soil.
emax − 𝑒
%𝐷𝑟 = ( ) 100
emax − 𝑒𝑚𝑖𝑛
̶28.97 − 0.94
%𝐷𝑟 = ( ) 100
̶28.97 − 0.012
%𝑫𝒓 = 𝟏𝟎𝟑. 𝟐𝟎

VI. Classify the given soil having the particles size distribution 9% sand, 19% gravel, 39% silt,
and 30% clay.

Given:
9% sand, 19% gravel, 39% silt, and 30% clay.
23. Determine the sand size.

%𝑠𝑎𝑛𝑑(100)
𝑆𝑎𝑛𝑑 = ( )
100 − %𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑣𝑒𝑙

(9)(100)
𝑆𝑎𝑛𝑑 = ( )
100 − 19

𝑺𝒂𝒏𝒅 = 𝟏𝟏. 𝟏𝟏%

24. Determine the size of silt.

%𝑠𝑖𝑙𝑡(100)
𝑆𝑖𝑙𝑡 = ( )
100 − %𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑣𝑒𝑙

(39)(100)
𝑆𝑖𝑙𝑡 = ( )
100 − 19

𝑺𝒊𝒍𝒕 = 𝟒𝟖. 𝟏𝟓%

25. What is the clay size?

 %𝑐𝑙𝑎𝑦(100)
Clay = ( )
100 − %𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑣𝑒𝑙

(30)(100)
Clay = ( )
100 − 19

𝐂𝐥𝐚𝐲 = 𝟑𝟕. 𝟎𝟒
26. What type of soil as a particles distributed above.
-silt clay loam

VII. A sample of inorganic soil has the following grain size characteristics.
Size (mm) Percent finer
No. 10 (2mm) 98%
No. 40 83%
No. 200 (0.075) 63%
(0.050mm) 57%
(0.005mm) 22%
(0.002mm) 19%
The liquid limit is 51%, plasticity index is 29%.
27. Determine the group index.
28. Classify the soil using U.S.D.A textural method.
29. Calculate the plastic limit.
PL = LL – PI
PL = 51 – 29
PL = 22 %
30. Classify the soil using AASHTO method.
Module 3:
Soil classification and composition

I. The following are the results of a sieve analysis. The liquid limit is 37.6%, plasticity
index is 32%.

Sieve size Mass retained

4 (0.187mm) 25g
10(0.66mm) 40g
40(0.01mm) 42g
60(0.001mm) 130g
100(0.006mm) 215g
200(0.0002mm) 67g
0.050mm 30g
0.005 mm 24g
0.002mm 10g

Percent Finer of Soil - Percent of Soil Retained -

583-25= 558/583(100) = 95.71 25/583(100) = 4.29

558-40 = 518/583(100) = 88.85 40/583(100) = 6.86
518-42= 476/583(100) = 81.65 42/583(100) = 7.2
476-130 = 346/583(100) = 59.35 130/583(100) =22.3
346-215 = 131/583(100) = 22.47 215/583(100) = 36.88
131-67 = 64/583(100) = 10.97 67/583(100) = 11.5
64-30 = 34/583(100) = 6.35 30/583(100) = 5.15
34-24 = 10/583(100) = 1.72 24/583(100) = 4.12
10-10 = 0/583(100) = 0 10/583(100) = 1.72

1. Determine the percent of soil retained in No.100

Ans. 36.88

2. Calculate the percent finer of soil in No.0.50mm size.

Ans. 6.35

3. Determine the fineness modulus;

∑𝐹 367.1
F.M. = =
100 100

F.M. = 3.671
 4. Determine the activity classification of soil;
𝑃𝐼
A = %𝐹200

32
A=
10.97

A = 2.92

5. Determine the plastic limit of soil;

PL = LL – PI
PL = 37.6 – 32
PL = 5.6%

6. Determine the group index of soil;

GI= (F-3.5) [0.2+0.005(LL-40)]+0.001(F-15)(PI-10)

GI = 6.78

7. Classify the soil by A-ASHTO method;

Ans. F = 12.5%

8. Calculate the uniformity coefficient;

𝐷60 0.01
Cu = 𝐷10 = 0.002
Cu = 5

9. Calculate the suitability number of soil;

1 1 1
SN = 1.70√(𝐷6)2 + (𝐷20)2 + (10)2
1 1 1
SN = 1.70 √(0.01)2 + (0.006)2 + (0.002)2
SN = 911.96

10. Determine the uniformity of curvature / graduation of soil;

(𝐷30)2
Cz = (𝐷10)(𝐷60)
(0.006)2
Cz = (0.002)(0.01)
Cz = 1.80
II. The result from the liquid and plastic limit test for a soil. The plastic limit is 15% in
place moisture content is 21% and the unconfined strength undisturbed and
remoulded are 2.52 + 1.65 tsfo.

No. of blows (N) 17 27

Moisture Content (W) 25 18

11. Determine liquid limit of soil at 27 blows;

𝑁27 27
LL@27 = W27[ 25 ]0.121 = 18[25]0.121
LL @ 27 = 18.17%
𝑁17 17
LL17 = W17[ 25 ]0.121= 25[25]0.121
LL17 = 23.86%

12. Determine the required liquid limit of soil;

Given:
17=23.86; 25=LL25; 27=18.17
17−27 23,86−18.17
=
25−27 𝐿𝐿25−18.17
−10 5.69
= 𝐿𝐿25−18.18
−2
LL25 = 19.31

13. Calculate the liquidity index;

%𝑤−𝑃𝐿 23−15
LI = 𝐿𝐿−𝑃𝐿 = 19.31−15
LI = 1.86

14. Compute for the sensitivity of soil;

2.55
S = 1.75
S = 1.46%

III. Calibrated mass of sane to fill that cone = 0.43kg mass of jar + cone + sane after use
= 5.30kg, moisture content is 11.8%, calibrated dry density of sand is 1,545kg/𝑚3 ,
mass of jar + cone and sand before use is 6.50kg, mass of moist soil in hole is 2.10kg.

15. Determine the mass of sane use to fill the hole;

Mf = Mn – Msand
Mf = (6.50-5.30) – 0.43
Mf = 0.77
16. Calculate the volume of the hole;
𝑀𝑓
Vh = 𝑃𝑠𝑎𝑛𝑑
0.77
Vh= 1,545
Vh = 0.00049𝒎𝟑

17. Determine the dry mass of soil from hole;

𝑀𝑡 2.10
Ms = 1+%𝑤 = 1+0.118
Ms = 1.88

18. Compute the dry density of compaction;

𝑀𝑡
Pdry = 𝑉ℎ
2.10
Pdry = 0.00049
Pdry = 4285.71 N

19. Calculate the relative compaction in the field;

𝑃𝑑𝑟𝑦 (𝑐𝑜𝑚𝑝𝑎𝑐𝑡𝑒𝑑)
%C = 𝑃𝑑𝑟𝑦 𝑚𝑎𝑥
4285.71
%C = 4197.7 (100)
%C = 102.1%

IV. The result of a standard Proctor test as shown:

Water Content weight of moist soil in mold(g)
10 1.48
11 1.60
12 1.70
16 1.77
18 1.75
20 1.65
1 3
The volume of mold is; 30 𝑓𝑡

Ɣ𝑤𝑒𝑡 –
1.48(30) = 44.4
1.60(30) = 48
1.70(30) = 51
1.77(30) = 53.1
1.75(30) = 52.5
1.65(30) = 49.5
20. Calculate the maximum moist unit weight in g/𝑓𝑡 3 ;
Ans. 53.1
21. Determine the maximum dry unit weight in g/𝑓𝑡 3 ;
53.1 52.5
= 45.77 = 44.5
1+0.16 1+0.18
 51
= 45
1+0.12

22. What is the optimum moisture content?

Ans. 16%

V. The date of field density test on a compacted fill of sandy clay. The maximum dry
density is 110pcf @ 11% ptimum water content. The wet soil removed from test hole
is 971g, after oven drying it becomes 714g and the volume of rubber – balloon
apparatus os 0.0169𝑓𝑡 3 .

23. Calculate the weight of moist soil in pounds;

𝑀𝑤𝑒𝑡 971
WT = 1000 = 1000(2.22lb/kg)
WT = 2.16

24. Calculate the weight of water;

𝑀𝑤𝑒𝑡−𝑀𝑑𝑟𝑦
Ww = (2.22)
1000
971−714
Ww = 1000 (2.22)
Ww = 0.57

25. Find the water content of soil;

𝑀𝑑𝑟𝑦
Ws = 1000 (2.22)
Ws = 1.57 lbs
𝑊𝑤 0.57
%w = 1.57 (100) = 1.57 (100)
%w = 36.31%

26. Determine the wet unit weight of soil.

𝑀𝑡 2.16
Ɣ𝑤𝑒𝑡 = 𝑉𝑡 = 0.0169 = 127.81

27. Determine the dry unit weight of soil;

Ɣ𝑤𝑒𝑡 127.81
Ɣ𝑑𝑟𝑦 = 1+%𝑤 = 1+0.3631
Ɣ𝒅𝒓𝒚 = 93.76

28. Calculate the relative compaction in the field;

Ɣ𝑑𝑟𝑦
%C = Ɣ𝑑𝑟𝑦 𝑚𝑎𝑥(100)
93.76
%C = 110 (100)
%C = 85.24%
Module 4: Flow of water in soil

I. A constant-head permeability test on a sand sample, 250x10³ of water collected in 2 minutes.

If the length is 90 mm, a diameter of 50 mm and head of 250 mm.
Given:
𝑡 = 2𝑚𝑖𝑛
ℎ = 250𝑚𝑚
𝐿 = 90𝑚𝑚
𝑉𝑑 = 250 × 103 𝑚𝑚3
1. Determine the hydraulic gradient?
ℎ
𝑖=( )
𝐿
250
𝑖=( )
90
𝒊 = 𝟐. 𝟕𝟖
2. What is the permeabilty coefficient?
𝑉𝑑
∅=( )
t
1m
250𝑥103 𝑚𝑚3(1000mm)3
∅=( 60sec
)
2 min ( min )

3
∅ = 2.08 × 10−6 𝑚 ⁄𝑠𝑒𝑐
3
2.08 × 10−6 𝑚 ⁄𝑠𝑒𝑐 = 1.96 × 10−3 𝑚3 (𝑘)(2.80)
𝒌 = 𝟑. 𝟕𝟗 × 𝟏𝟎−𝟒 𝒎⁄𝒔𝒆𝒄

II. The permeability of a semi-impervious soil was determined in a falling-head permeameter,

head decreased from 100cm to 45cm in 3 minutes. The diameter is 18cm, stand pipe diameter is
0.45cm and length of sample is 9cm.
Given:
ℎ1 = 100𝑐𝑚
ℎ2 = 45𝑐𝑚
𝑡 = 3𝑚𝑖𝑛
𝐷 = 18𝑐𝑚
𝑑 = 0.45𝑐𝑚
𝑙 = 9𝑐𝑚

3. Calculate the ratio of area of sample & stand pipe?

 𝐷2
𝐴 п( )
( ) = ( 𝑑42 )
𝑎 п( ) 4
(18)2
A=( )
(0.45)2
A = 1600

4. Determine the permeability in cm/min.

𝑙𝑎 ℎ1
𝑘 = ( ) ln ( )
𝑇𝐴 ℎ2
п
9 (4) (0.45)2 100
𝑘=( п
) ln ( )
3 (4) (18)2 45

𝑘 = 0.0015 𝑐𝑚⁄𝑚𝑖𝑛

III. A pumping test was made extending 15m depth. Observation wells at 2m and 8.5m from
pump, a steady state @ 21 hours at about to discharged of 13.8cu.m/sec. The draws of
observation wells were 1.6 and 0.38m respectively.
Given:
r2 = 2𝑚
h1 = 15𝑚
h1 = 1.6𝑚
r1 = 8.5𝑚

5. Determine the heads of pumping wells?

ℎ1 = 15 − 1.6 = 𝟏𝟑. 𝟒
ℎ2 = 15 − 0.38 = 𝟏𝟒. 𝟔𝟐

6. Calculate the coefficient of permeability, mm/ sec.

r
ϕ ln (r1 )
2
𝑘=( )
п(h1 2 − h2 2 )
8.5
13.8𝑥106 ln ( 2 )
𝑘=( )
п((13.4𝑥103 )2 − (14.62x103 )2 )

𝒌 = 𝟎. 𝟎𝟎𝟎𝟑𝟔 𝒎𝒎⁄𝒔𝒆𝒄

IV. The coefficient of permeability of a sand at void ratio of 0.60 is 0.15cm/sec. Void ratio at
layer 3 is 0.58, the specific gravity is 2.14.
Given:
 𝑒1 = 0.60 → 𝑘1 = 0.17 𝑐𝑚⁄𝑠
𝑒1 = 0.58 → 𝑘2 =?
𝐺. 𝑆 = 2.15

7. Determine the critical hydraulic gradient at layer 1?

G. S. −1
𝑖𝑐 = ( )
1 + e1
2.15 − 1
ic = ( )
1 + 0.60
𝐢𝐜 = 𝟎. 𝟕𝟐

8. Compute the permeability at layer 2?

k1 e1 2
( ) = ( 2)
k2 e2
0.17 (0.60)2
( )=( )
k2 (0.58)2
𝐤 𝟐 = 𝟎. 𝟏𝟓

9. Determine the constant coefficient “C” of permeability at layer 22

k 2 (1 + e2 )
𝑐2 = ( )
e2 2
0.15(1 + 0.58)
c2 = ( )
(0.58)2
𝐜𝟐 = 𝟎. 𝟕𝟎

10. Determine the height to which water will rise in a capillary tube of diameter 0.05mm, with
surface tension of 0.070 g/cm?
Given:
ơ =0.070 g/cm
𝐷 = 0.05𝑚𝑚
ơп
ℎ𝑐 = ( )
d
(0.070)(п)
hc = ( )
0.05
𝒉𝒄 = 𝟒. 𝟒

11.A sand with rounded grains has an effective size of 0.070m and uniformly coefficient of 3.7.
Calculate the permeability, cm/sec.
Given:
𝐷10 = 0.070𝑚
 𝑒𝑢 = 3.7
𝐾 = 𝐶𝐷12
100𝑐𝑚 2
𝐾= (3.7)(0.070)2 ( )
1𝑚
𝐊 = 𝟏𝟖𝟏. 𝟑

V. A soil area is 143m wide and 236m length and with coefficient of permeability of 2m/day.
The water @ upstream is 164m and 154m atdownstream the length of impervious soil is 120m,
void ratio=0.40.
Given:
𝐿 = 120𝑚
𝑚
𝑘 = 2 ⁄𝑑𝑎𝑦
ℎ1 = 143𝑚
ℎ2 = 161𝑚
𝑒 = 0.40

12. Calculate its hydraulic gradient?

∆h
𝑖=( )
L
161 − 143
𝑖=( )
120
𝒊 = 𝟎. 𝟏𝟓

13. Calculate the water flow rate, L/second.?

G→L/sec
G=kiA
K=2m/day x 1day/24 hour x1mm/3600sec
K= 2.3𝑥10−5 m/sec

Q=2.3𝑥10−5 (0.15)(143x236)
1000L
Q=0.12( )
m³
Q=120L/sec

14. Find the discharge velocity, m/hour?

𝑉 = 𝑘𝑖
 2m 1day
𝑉=( (0.15)) x ( )
Lday 24hours
𝑽 = 𝟎. 𝟎𝟏𝟐𝟓

15. Find the seepage velocity, m/min?

1+e m
Vs = V ( )→
e min
1 + 0.40 1hr
Vs = ( )x( )
0.40 60min
𝐕𝐬 = 𝟎. 𝟎𝟓𝟖

VI. The soil layer as shown:

ℎ1 = 2𝑚, 𝑘1 = 0.01 𝑐𝑚⁄𝑠𝑒𝑐 𝑜𝑟 0.0001 𝑚⁄𝑠𝑒𝑐
ℎ2 = 4𝑚, 𝑘2 = 0.022 𝑐𝑚⁄𝑠𝑒𝑐 𝑜𝑟 0.00022 𝑚⁄𝑠𝑒𝑐
ℎ3 = 6𝑚, 𝑘3 = 0.0009 𝑐𝑚⁄𝑠𝑒𝑐 𝑜𝑟 9 × 10−6 𝑚⁄𝑠𝑒𝑐
16. Calculate the permeability in horizontal direction?
𝑘1 ℎ1 + 𝑘2 ℎ2 + 𝑘3 ℎ3
𝑘𝑛 =
𝐻
(0.0001)(2) + (0.00022)(4) + ( 9 × 10−6 )(6)
𝑘𝑛 =
2+4+6
𝒌𝒏 = 𝟗. 𝟒𝟓 × 𝟏𝟎−𝟓 𝒎⁄𝒔𝒆𝒄

17. Calculate the equivalent permeability by in vertical flow?

𝐻
𝑘𝑣 = ℎ1 ℎ1 ℎ1
+𝑘 +𝑘
𝑘 1 1 1
2+4+6
𝑘𝑣 = 2 4 6
+ 0.00022 + 9×10−6
0.0001

𝒌𝒗 = 𝟏. 𝟕𝟎 × 𝟏𝟎−𝟓 𝒎⁄𝒔𝒆𝒄

18. Find the actual permeability of soil?

𝑘 = √𝑘𝑛 2 + 𝑘𝑣 2

𝑘 = √(9.45 × 10−5 )2 + 1.70 × 10−5 )2

𝑘 = 9.60 × 10−5

VII. A proposed excavation at a deep of 1.5m, a soil porosity of 30%, Specific gravity of 2.55.
19. Determine the void ratio?
𝑛
𝑒=
1−𝑛
0.3
𝑒=
1 − 0.3
𝒆 = 𝟎. 𝟒𝟑

20. Calculate the hydraulic gradient?

𝐺. 𝑆 − 1
𝑖𝑖 =
1+𝑒
2.55 − 1
𝑖𝑖 =
1 + 0.43
𝒊𝒊 = 𝟏. 𝟎𝟖𝟒

21. Find the maximum pumping depth?

ℎ
𝑖𝑖 =
𝐺. 𝑆 − ℎ𝑖
1.5
1.084 =
2.55 − ℎ𝑖
𝒉𝒊 = 𝟏. 𝟏𝟔

VIII. A soil sample having a record diameter 10mm, length of 150mm, pipe diameter is 9mm.
h1=1200mm to 900mm
h2=900mm to 750mm
Time= 65 sec to 41 sec

22. Calculate the initial permeability, mm/sec?

23. Calculate the final permeability, mm sec?
24. What is the average value of permeability?
25. A soil having relative density 2.60 @ 20ºC of 0.00001g-sec/cm². Calculate its velocity?
Module 5:
Flow Nets, Discharge and Seepage

I. The water level at upstream is 15m and 5m at downstream, length of trapezoidal dam is 48m,
the flow line 4 and there is 10 pressure drops, the soil sample tested has a diameter and length of
12 cm and 23cm respectively, the head decreased from 115cm to 50cm in 5 minutes and the
standpipe diameter is 0.37cm and 8m as impermeable soil.

Given:
Nf=5 h1=115cm
Nd=15 h2=50cm
Øsoil=12cm t=5min
Lsoil=23cm Øp=0.37

1. Calculate the coefficient of permeability of soil?

𝑙𝑎 ℎ1
𝐾= 𝐼𝑛
𝑇𝐴 ℎ2
 0.372
[23 (𝜋 ) 115
4
𝐾= 102
𝐼𝑛
(𝜋 ) 50
4
𝐾 = 2.623 × 10−4 𝑚⁄𝑚𝑖𝑛
2. Determine the pressure drops across adjacent equipotential lines?
ℎ𝑢𝑝𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑚
ℎ=
𝑁𝑑
15
h=
15
h=1

3. Compute the seepage at the foundation of the soil, cu.m/min/m?

𝑘∆𝐻𝑁𝑓 2.623𝑥10−4 (15−5)(5)(1)

Q= =
𝑁𝑑 15
Q = 0.010

4. Compute the upstream uplift force of the dam?

Fups = P1LtƔw
Fups = ( 15-5)(9.81)(50)(1)
Fups = 11281.5kN

5. Calculate the total force of the dam?

Fdown = P9ƔwLt
Fdown = 2(9.81)(48)(1)
Fdown = 941.76kN

6. Calculate the escape gradient at downstream tip to upstream?

Fups+Fdown
FTOTAL =
2
11281.5+941.76
=
2
FTOTAL = 6111.63kN

II. The sheet pile is driven, the permeability of the sand is 0.001m/sec (0.0012) below the
elevation is 20m ( 25) is impervious soil, the upstream and downstream elevation is 30m (
22)and 27m ( 18) respectively. The end of sheet pile is at elevation 22m( 11), the pressure drops
is 6, the number of flow lines is 3.
7. Calculate the seepage in cu.m/sec/m;
𝑘𝐻𝑁𝑓 0.001𝑚/sec (30)(3)(1)
Q = 𝑁𝑑 = 6
Q = 0.015𝑚3 /𝑠𝑒𝑐

8. Calculate the total head at end of sheet pile;

∆H = H1 – 0.5(H2-H3)
∆H = 27.5

9. Calculate the pressure head at end of sheet pile;

Ph = ∆H – h3 = 27.5 – 22
Ph = 5.5

10. Compute the pressure at end of sheet pile;

Ps = ƔwPht = 9.81(5.5)(1)
Ps = 53.96kPa

11. Calculate the average hydraulics gradient at the end bottom of the block soil;
0.36(∆𝐻) 0.36(27.5)
iave = 𝑃ℎ = 5.5 = 1.8

12. Calculate its safety against downstream heave if saturated unit weight is 17.67;
Ɣ𝑠𝑎𝑡−Ɣ𝑤 17.67−9.81
F.S. = Ɣ𝑤(𝑖) = 9.81(1.8) = 0.445
Ɣsat = 17.67kN/𝑚2

III. A dam 70m ( 50) length, had a sheet pile placed 10m (12) from upstream at depth 15m (10).
the upstream and downstream elevation is 50m ( 44) and 10m ( 4)respectively, permeability 0f
0.01m/sec ( 0.003), pressure drops and flow lines are 5 and 3 respectively.

13. Calculate the creep weighted ratio;

Lv = h1-h2+h3 = 50-10+15 = 55
Lw = 10+70 = 80
∑𝐿ℎ 80
Lw = 3 + ∑Lv = 3 + 55 =81.67
𝐿𝑤 81.67
Wcr = ℎ1−ℎ2 = 50−10 = 2.04

14. Calculate the head loss at equipotential lines;

𝐻 50
hL = 𝑁𝑑 = 5 = 10
15. Solve the head loss at upstream;
hLv = [h1-d(hl)] = 50-1(10) = 40m

16. Calculate the discharge;

𝑘∆𝐻𝑁𝑡 0.01(50−10)(3) 0.24𝑚3
Q= = = /𝑚
𝑁𝑑 5 𝑠𝑒𝑐
17. Calculate its seepage where phreatic line occurs at where the sheet pile set-up;
𝑘(ℎ1−ℎ2) 0.01(50−10)
Q = 2𝐿 = 2(70) = 2.86𝑥10−3

18. If the angle of phreatic line at downstream is 20 degrees, calculates its seepage;
Q = kLtanӨsinӨ = 0.01(39.60)(tan20)(sin20)
Q = 0.05

𝑑 𝑑2 ∆𝐻 2
L = 𝑐𝑜𝑠Ө - √𝑐𝑜𝑠2 Ө − 𝑠𝑖𝑛2 Ө
𝑑
tan20ᶿ=80 ; d = 29.12
29.12 (29.12)2 (40)2
L = 𝑐𝑜𝑠20 - √(𝑐𝑜𝑠20)2 − (𝑠𝑖𝑛20)2 = 39.60

19. Calculate the pressure head between pile and upstream;

h3 = [H- d (H2)]
h3 = [50- 3(10)]
h3 = 20
20. Calculate its pressure at end of downstream;
h4 = [50-4(10)] = 10

21. Compute the permeability of soil if the discharge is 0.014cu.m/sec/m having a flowline of 5
and pressure drop is 14. The upstream elevation is 20m;
𝑘𝐻𝑁𝑡 0.014(14)
Q = 𝑁𝑑 = 20(5)
Q = 1.96𝑥10−3 𝑚/𝑠𝑒𝑐
Module 6:
Geostatic stresses, subsurface stresses

I. A soil stresses caused by soil mass of having a unit weight of 15kn/cu.m deposited on loose
sand that acts within a depth of 3meters.

1. Determine the vertical stresses of sand, kPa;

Ɣv = ƔZ = 15(3)
Ɣv = 45kPa

2. Calculate the horizontal stress of sand, kPa;

Ơh = kO(Ơv) = 0.50(45)
Ơh = 22.5kPa

3. Assuming the water table is at ground surface, calculate the soil effective stresses if void is
0.89, relative density is 2.98;
Ɣ(𝐺𝑆+𝑒) 9.81(2.98+0.89)
Ɣsat = 1+𝑒 = =
1+0.89
3
Ɣsat = 20.09 kN/𝑚
4. If the total weight of soil exist above the water table, determine its effective stress;
Ơv = ƔZ = 20.09(3)
Ơv = 60.27

II. A concrete basement wall for a structure extends 1.25m below the ground water, the layer is
made of medium dense sand 1.25m below the ground surface of having a unit weight of
19.2kN/cu., and the depth of wall footing is 3m below the ground of having a submerged unit
weight of 10kN/cu.m.

5. Calculate the soil lateral pressure of the medium dense sand layer of 1.25m, kPa;
Ơh = kO(Ơv) = 0.4(24) = 9.6
ƠV1 = Ɣ1Z1 = 19.2(1.25) = 24kPa

6. Determine the horizontal soil pressure acts on 3m below the ground, kPa;
ƠhT = Ơh1 + Ơh2 + Ơh3
Ơh2 = Ɣ1(Z2) = [(19.2-9.81)0.5](0.4) = 1.88
Ơh3 = 10(1.25)(0.4) = 5
ƠhT = 9.6 + 1.88 + 5 = 16.5

7. Calculate the total lateral pressure, kPa;

ƠhT = 9.6 + 1.88 + 5 = 16.5

8. Find the total vertical effective stress, kPa;

ƠV1 = 24kPa
ƠV2= (19.2-9.81)0.5 = 4.70
ƠV3 = 10(1.25) = 12.5
ƠVT = ƠV1+ ƠV2 + ƠV3
ƠVT = 24 + 4.70 + 12.5 = 41.2

9. Determine the actual coefficient of lateral earth pressure;

Ɣℎ 16.5
KO = Ɣ𝑣 = 41.2 = 0.40

III. From given soil profile and properties of each layer. For layer 1 composed of 3m day sand
with void of 48%, relative density of 2.18. for layer 2, made of 4m sand which is at water table
of having a porosity of 40% and specific gravity of 2.75 and layer 3 composed of 2.5m clay with
water content and void of 40% and 1.30 respectively.

10. Calculate the effective stress at layer 1, kPa;

ƠV1 = Ɣ1Z1
𝐺.𝑆.Ɣ𝑤 2.18(9.81)
Ɣdry = 1+𝑒 = 1+0.48 = 14.45
ƠV1 = 14.45(3) = 43.35

11. Calculate the effective stress at layer 2, kPa;

 ƠV2 = ƔsubZ2
Ɣsat = [(1-n)(G.S.+N)]Ɣw
Ɣsat = [(1-0.40)2.75+0.39](9.81)
Ɣsat = 18.48 kN/𝑚3

ƠV2 = (Ɣsat-Ɣw)(Z2) = (18.48-9.81)(4)

ƠV2 = 34.68

12. Calculate the total effective stress of the soil;

ƔV3 = Ɣsub(Z3) =
%𝑤𝐺.𝑆.
%s = 𝑒
40(𝐺.𝑆.)
100% = 1.30
G.S. = 3.25

(𝐺𝑆−1)Ɣ𝑤 9.81(3.25−1)
Ɣsub = 1+3 = 1+1.30
Ɣsub = 9.59

ƠV3 = Ɣsub(Z3) = 9.59(2.5)

ƠV3 = 23.97

ƠVt = ƠV1 + ƠV2 + ƠV3

ƠVt = 43.35 + 34.68 + 23.97 = 101.6

13. Calculate the hydraulic gradient that will cause boiling for layer 2 and 3;
(18.48−9.81)
iCr2 = = 0.88
9.81
9.59
iCr3 = 9.81 = 0.977

14. How high should the water table so that the effective stress at bottom is 120kPa;
ƠVt = ƠV1 + ƠV2 + ƠV3 + ƠV4
ƠV1 = 14.45(3-h)
(𝐺𝑆+𝑒)Ɣ𝑤 (2.75+0.48)9.81
ƠV2 = 1+𝑒 (ℎ) = [ 1+0.48 ](h) = 21.41h
ƠV3 = 34.68
ƠV4 = 23.97

120 = 14.45(3-h) + 21.41h + 34.68 + 23.97

h = 2.58m

15. A foundation supported on the surface of a uniform, homogenous soil is 2m square and
carrying a load of 300kN, stress increase occurs at a depth of 5m and 4.5m distance from line of
the concentrated load.
16. Using boussiness equation, what will be the subsurface stresses, kPa;
𝑄 5
∆ƠVb = 𝑍 2 { 4.5 2 2.5 }
2𝜋[1+( ) ]
5
300 5
∆ƠVb = (5)2 { 4.5 2 2.5 }
2𝜋[1+( ) ]
5
∆ƠVb = 2.16kPa

17. Using westeergard equation, determine the subsurface stresses, kPa;

𝑄
∆ƠVw = 𝑟 2
𝑍 2 (𝜋)[1+2( ) ]1.5
𝑧
300
∆ƠVw = 4.5 2 1.5
52 (𝜋)[1+2( ) ]
5
∆ƠVw = 0.90kPa

18. Using approximation method, what is the possible subsurface stresses, kPa;
𝑄 300
∆ƠVa = (𝐵+𝑧)(𝑤+𝑧) = (2+5)(2.5)
∆ƠVa = 17.14kPa

19. Compute its subsurface stresses beneath the edge of the square footing using boussiness
chart, kPa;
𝑍 5
= = 2.5
𝐵 2
𝑃 520
♀’ = 𝐴 = 2(2)
♀’ = 125kPa

20. Compute the subsurface stresses beneath the center of the square footing using westerngard
chart, kPa;
∆ƔVwg = 0.12 (125)
∆ƔVwg = 15kPa

22. On the basis of Marston’s theory of loads, if conduits be placed under the footing with
diameter of 65mm, having a coefficient of 1.60, soil unit weight of 18.7kN/cu.m. calculate the
safe load could pipe carry with factor of safety 1.5?
1.60(18.7)(1.5)
w= = 690.46kPa
0.065

23. If the footing changed to circular base of 2m, what will be the subsurface stresses beneath the
center, use westerngard chart;

𝑃 4𝑃 4(500)
♀’ = 𝐴 = 𝜋𝐷2 = 𝜋(2)2
♀’ = 159.15kPa

24. Using boussiness chart, what will be its stresses beneath circular edge, kPa;
∆ƠVbc = 0.11(159.15)
∆ƠVbc = 17.51kPa
Module 7:
Shear strength theory

I.The angle of internal friction of compacted dry sand is 50degrees. In a direct shear test, a
normal stress of 120kN/𝑚2 was applied. The sample is 50mm x 50mm x 30mm;

1. Calculate the shearing stress.

𝜏
tanӨ = Ơ
τ = ƠtanӨ
τ =120 tan50
τ = 143.01kPa

2. Determine the shear force that will cause shear failure.

𝐹
τ=𝐴
𝐹
143.01 = 2.5𝑥10−3
F = 0.36kN

3. What will be the void ratio of sand?

0.65
tanӨ = 𝑒 ;
0.65
e = 𝑡𝑎𝑛50°
e = 0.55

4. Calculate the weight of specimen, kN;

W = Ɣ(Volume)
W = 2.5x10−3(0.03)
W = 7.5x10−5

5. What normal force required causing failure?

𝑃
Ơ=𝐴
P = ƠA
P = 120(2.5x10−3)(1000)
P = 300N

6. Calculate the shearing resistance, kPa;

𝑆𝑠
ƠtanӨ = 𝑇
Ss = 120(tan50°)(0.36)
Ss = 51.48kPa

7. Calculate the flow factor;

1+𝑠𝑖𝑛Ө 1+𝑠𝑖𝑛50
nӨ = = 1−𝑠𝑖𝑛Ө = 1−𝑠𝑖𝑛50
nӨ = 7.5
8. Find the theoretical inclination of failure crack;
Ө
ӨCr = 45 + = 2
Ө = 70° (FAILURE)

9. The results of shear test on a cohesive soil 60mm x 60mm;

Normal Load (kN) Shear Load (kN)
0.073 0.109
0.191 0.139
0.309 0.170
0.427 0.197
0.545 0.227

10. Calculate the cohesion, kPa;

𝜏1−𝐶 𝑇𝑎𝑣𝑒−𝐶
= Ơ𝑎𝑣𝑒
Ơ1
30.28−𝐶 46.78−𝐶
= 85.83
20.28
C = 25.18kPa

11. Calculate the angle of shearing resistance;

𝑇1−𝐶
tanӨ = Ơ1
30.28−25.18
tanӨ = 20.27
Ө = 14.12°

II. The relative density and angle of friction is (22 + .18dr), confining pressure of 104kPa,
compaction is 43%.

12. Calculate the angle of internal friction;

Ө = 22+0.18(43)
Ө = 29.74°

13. Calculate the angle of failure;

Ө
Ө = 43+2
29.74
Ө = 43+ 2
Ө = 57.87°

14. Calculate the major principal stress, kPa;

Ө1−Ө3
sinӨ =
Ө1+Ө3
Ө1−104
sinӨ = Ө1+104
Ө1 = 308.75kPa

15. Find it’s radial stress, kPa;

 Ө1−Ө3
R= 2
308.75−104
R= 2
R = 102.37kPa

16. Calculate the normal stress on the failure plane, kPa;

Ө1+Ө3
Ơn = 2 – RsinӨ
308.75−104
Ơn = – 102.37sin29.74°
2
Ơn = 51.59kPa

17. Determine the shear stress on the failure plane, kPa;

T = RcosӨ
T = 102.37(cos29.74)
T = 88.88

18. What will be the Deviator Stress, kPa?

Ɣdf = Ө1 – Ө3
Ɣdf = 308.75-104
Ɣdf = 204.75kPa

II. A tri-axial shear test is performed on a cohesion soil, normal stress is 300Pa, and shear stress
is 150.
19. Calculate the angle of internal friction;
150
tanӨ = 300
Ө = 26.56°

20. Calculate the deviator stress, kPa;

𝑇 𝑇
cosӨ = 𝑅 ; R = 𝑐𝑜𝑠Ө
150
R= = 167.69
𝑐𝑜𝑠26.56
∑df = 2R = 2(167.69)
∑df = 335.38kPa

21. Calculate the major principal stress, kPa;

Ơ1 = Ơn + M + R
Ơ1 = 300 + 156.28 + 167.69
Ơ1 = 623.97

22. Calculate the minor principal stress, kPa;

Ơ3 = Ơ1-∑df
Ơ3 = 623.97 – 335.38
Ơ3 = 288.59kPa

III. The soil internal friction of 32degree, where lateral pressure is 48kPa, soil unit weight is
21kn/𝑚3 ; 30cm omega sample.
23. Calculate the radical stress, kPa;
𝑅
sinӨ = Ө3+𝑅
𝑅
sin32° = 48+𝑅
R = 54.11kPa

24. Compute for the maximum vertical stress;

Ө1 = Ө3 +2R
Ө1 = 48 + 54.11(2)
Ө1 = 156.22kPa

25. Solve for the void ratio of soil;

𝑇 0.65
= 𝑒
Ơ
45.89 0.65
= 𝑒
73.44
e = 1.04

26. Solve for its specific gravity;

(𝐺𝑆+𝑒)Ɣ𝑤
Ɣwet = 1+𝑒
(𝐺𝑆+1.04)9.81
21= 1+1.04
GS = 3.32

27. Calculate the cohesion;

T = C+ƠtanӨ
45.89 = C + 73.44(tan32)
C = −4.05𝑥10−4

Module 8:
Combined stresses in soil masses

I. The normal stress acting on a given plane in a soil mass is 225 KPa, at the same point the pore
pressure is 70KPa. If the cohesion is 20 KPa and angle of internal friction is 35°.
1. Calculate the radial stress, KPa
Solution:
c
tan35° = x
20
x =tan35°=28.56kPa

σ =× +σ3 + μ
225 = 28.56 + σ3 + 70
σ3 = 126.44
 R
sin∅ = ×+σ
3 +R
R
sin35 = 28.56+126.44+R
R = 208.5kPa

2. Calculate the shear strength, KPa

Solution:
𝜏
Cos∅ = R
𝜏 = Rcos∅
𝜏 = 208.5𝑐𝑜𝑠35
𝝉 = 170.8𝑘𝑃𝑎

3. Calculate the normal strength, KPa

Solution:
𝜎1 = 𝜎3 + 2R
𝜎1 = 126.44 + 2(208.5)
𝝈𝟏 = 543.44kPa

II. A consolidated – undrained test was conducted on a normally consolidated specimen with a
chamber confining pressure of 135 KPa, the specimen failed while the deviator stress was 120
KPa. The pore water pressure at the time was 65 KPa.

4. Calculate the drained angle friction angle, KPa

Solution:
65
sin∅1 = 120
∅1 = 32.79

5. Determine its undrained friction angle, KPa

Solution:
R2
sin∅cu = 𝜎 (2)+R
3 2
65
sin∅cu =
200
∅𝐜𝐮 = 18.96°

6. Calculate the shear strength of undraiened consolidated soil.

Solution:
𝜏𝑐𝑢
cos∅cu =
R2
𝜏𝑐𝑢 = R cu cos∅cu
𝜏𝑐𝑢 = 65cos18.96
𝝉𝒄𝒖 = 61.47𝑘𝑃𝑎
7. Determine its normal strength of undrained consolidated soil, KPa
Solution:
𝜏
tan∅cu = ∅𝑐𝑢
cu
61.47
∅cu =
tan18.96
∅cu = 178.92
𝜏1 = R1 cos∅1
𝜏1 = 65cos32.79 = 54.64kPa
𝜏1 54.64
𝝈𝒏 = = = 84.82𝑘𝑃𝑎
𝑡𝑎𝑛∅1 𝑡𝑎𝑛32.79

III. For a clay soil, the consolidated – undrained friction angle is 16°, angle of friction is 25°, the
chamber confining is 105 KPa.
8. Calculate the deviator stress, KPa
Solution:
R2
Sin16=105+R
2
R=39.95kPa
∆𝑑 = 2𝑅
∆𝑑1 = ∆𝑑2 = 2𝑅2
∆𝒅 = 2(39.95) = 79.9𝑘𝑃𝑎

Module 10:
Slope stability of soil;

I. A cut slope is to be made in a soil having a unit weight of 18.5kN/𝑚3 , cohesion of 27.7kPa
and an angle of friction of 20°. The side of the cut slope will make an angle of 40° with the
horizontal. If the factor of safety of the cut slope is 2.7.

1. What is the cohesion that develops along the potential failure surface, kPa?
27.7
Cd = 2.7
Cd = 10.25

2. What angle of friction that develops along the potential failure surface?
𝑡𝑎𝑛Ө
FS = 𝑡𝑎𝑛Ө𝑑
𝑡𝑎𝑛Ө
tanӨd = 𝐹𝑆
𝑡𝑎𝑛20
Өd = 𝑡𝑎𝑛−1 ( )
2.7
 Өd = 7.67°

3. What would be the depth of cut slope, m?

4𝐶𝑑𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐵𝑐𝑜𝑠Ө
H=Ɣ[1−cos(𝐵−Ө𝑑)]
4(10.25)(𝑠𝑖𝑛40)(𝑐𝑜𝑠20)
H= 18.5[1−cos(40−7.67)]
H = 8.63m

4. What critical height of slope at failure of finite slope, m?

𝑐𝑢 𝐶𝑑 10.25
Hcr = Ɣ𝑚 M = Ɣ𝐻 = 18.5(8.63); M=0.06
10.25
Hcr = 18.5(0.06)
Hcr = 9.23m

5. Calculate the factor of safety with respect to cohesion of soil failure mode of infinite slope.
𝐶
FC = 𝐶𝑑
27.7
FC = 10.25
FC = 2.70

6. What maximum height of the slope for which critical equilibrium, m?

𝐶
Hcr = Ɣ𝑐𝑜𝑠2 𝐵(𝑡𝑎𝑛𝐵−𝑡𝑎𝑛Ө)
27.7
Hcr = 18.5(𝑐𝑜𝑠40)2 [tan(40−20)]
Hcr = 7.01m

7. What depth of stability of infinite slope without seepage?

𝐶 𝑡𝑎𝑛Ө
FS = [Ɣ𝐻𝑐𝑜𝑠2 𝐵𝑡𝑎𝑛𝐵]+𝑡𝑎𝑛𝐵
27.7 𝑡𝑎𝑛20
2.7 = [18.5(𝐻)(𝑐𝑜𝑠40)2𝑡𝑎𝑛40]+𝑡𝑎𝑛40
H = 1.34m

8. What height of stability of infinite slope with seepage?

𝐶 Ɣ𝑠𝑢𝑏(𝑡𝑎𝑛Ө)
FS = [Ɣ𝐻𝑐𝑜𝑠2 𝐵𝑡𝑎𝑛𝐵]+ Ɣ𝑠𝑎𝑡(𝑡𝑎𝑛𝐵)
27.7 (18.5−9.81)𝑡𝑎𝑛20
2.7 = [18.5(𝐻)(𝑐𝑜𝑠40)2𝑡𝑎𝑛40]+ 18.5(𝑡𝑎𝑛40)
H = 1.22

9. What critical height of the slope for which critical equilibrium occurs of finite slope at plane
failure?
4𝐶 𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐵𝑐𝑜𝑠Ө
Hcr = Ɣ [1−cos (𝐵−Ө)]
4(27.7) 𝑠𝑖𝑛40(𝑐𝑜𝑠20)
Hcr = [1−cos (40−20)]
18.5
Hcr = 59.98
10. What factor of safety with respect to friction?
𝑡𝑎𝑛Ө 𝑡𝑎𝑛20
FӨ = 𝑡𝑎𝑛Ө𝑑 = 𝑡𝑎𝑛7.67
FӨ = 2.70
II. A cut slope is to be made the unit weight of soil is 15.55kN/𝑚3 and an angle of 10°. The
cohesion is 28.8kPa, the plane failure makes 20° and the cut slope angle is 40°. If the height is
3.5m;

11. Calculate the length of cut slope from base up to the end of top of surface plane.
3.5
Tan20= 𝑥
X=9.62m

12. What length of the horizontal cut slope, m?

3.5
Tan40=
𝑋2
X2 = 4.17m

13. What is the length of plane failure, m?

3.5
Sin20= 𝑦
Y=10.23m

14. Calculate the weight of soil to curve slides, kN;

W=V1HƔ1
X1=X-X2 = 9.62-4.17;X=5.45

5.45(3.5)(15.55)(1)
W= 2
W = 148.31kN
15. What is the normal force, kN?
Wn=N
Wn=wcosӨ
Wn = 148.31(cos20)
Wn = 139.36kN

17. What factor is safe?

∑𝑅𝑒𝑠𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝐹𝑜𝑟𝑐𝑒
FS = 𝑠𝑙𝑖𝑑𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑐𝑒
𝐹1+𝐹2
FS = 𝑊2
9.66+172.8
FS = 148.31𝑠𝑖𝑛20
FS = 3.59
(very much stable)
III. A cut slope makes an angle of 65° and 42° of failure plane, using circularly cylindrical
failure surface analysis factor of safety is 3, stability number is 0.178, undrained shear strength is
24kPa, unit weight is 15.65kN/𝑚3 , O angle of friction.

18. What critical height of slope, m?

𝑐𝑢
Hcr = Ɣ𝑠(𝑚)
24
Hcr = 15.65(0.178)
Hcr = 8.62m

19. Compute the distance of the point of intersection of the critical failure;
𝐻𝑐𝑟 8.62
X1 = 𝑡𝑎𝑛42 = 𝑡𝑎𝑛32 = 9.57
𝐻𝑐𝑟 8.28
X2 = 𝑡𝑎𝑛65 = 𝑡𝑎𝑛65 = 4.02
X = X1-X2
X = 9.57-4.02
X = 5.55

20. What is the developed cohesion?

𝐶𝑛
Cd = 𝐹𝑆
24
Cd = 3
Cd = 8 kPa

Module 11;

I. A 7m tail cantilever wall retains the soil with properties c = 12.7kPa, internal friction is 35°,
unit weight is 18.7kN/𝑚3 .

Given:
C=12.7kPa, Ө=35°, Ɣ=18.7kPa

1. Assuming the rankine condition, what active force on the wall before tensile crack, kN/m;
Ө
ka=𝑡𝑎𝑛2 (45 − )
2
2 35
ka=𝑡𝑎𝑛 (45 − )
2
ka=0.27kN/m
 Ɣℎ2 𝑘𝑎
F= – 2ch√𝑘𝑎
2
18.7(7)2 (0.27)
F= – 2(12.7)(7)√0.27
2
F = 31.31kN/m
2. When water table is on the top of the wall, calculate the total active pressure behind the wall,
use Rankine pressure;
Ө Ɣ𝑤ℎ2 Ɣ𝑠ℎ2 𝑘𝑝
kp=𝑡𝑎𝑛2 (45 + 2 ) Fp= +
2 2
2 35 9.81(7)1 18.7(7)2 (3)
kp=𝑡𝑎𝑛 (45 + ) Fp= +
2 2 2
kp=1.13 Fp = 1,614.79

3. Find the depth to which crack occurs at passive rankine condition;

P1=Ɣhkp + 2c√𝑘𝑝 P2=Ɣh+2c√𝑘𝑝
P1= 18.7(7)(3) + 2(12.7)(√3 ) P2=18.7(7)+2(12.7)√3
P1 = 436.69 P2=174.89
𝑃1 𝑃2 436.69 174.89
= ℎ−𝑍 ; =
𝑍 𝑍 7−𝑍
Z = 4.99

4. Determine the normal force on the back wall using rankine theory, if backfill angle is 17°;
𝑐𝑜𝑠£−√𝑐𝑜𝑠2 £−𝑐𝑜𝑠2 Ө
ka=cos£[
𝑐𝑜𝑠£+√𝑐𝑜𝑠2 £− 𝑐𝑜𝑠2 Ө
𝑐𝑜𝑠17−√(𝑐𝑜𝑠17)2 −(𝑐𝑜𝑠35)2
ka = cos17[
𝑐𝑜𝑠17+√(𝑐𝑜𝑠17)2 −(𝑐𝑜𝑠35)2
ka = 0.31
1
F=2(Ɣ2 ℎ𝑘𝑎)
1
F = 2 (18.7)2 (7)(0.31)
F = 379.41

5. What Coulumb’s active Earth pressure for inclined backfill if angle of backface is 20°, wall
friction angle is 15°?
𝑠𝑖𝑛2 (𝐵+Ө)
kc= sin(Ө+Ɣ) sin(Ө−Ɣ)
𝑠𝑖𝑛2 𝐵𝑠𝑖𝑛(𝐵−Ɣ)[1+√ ]
sin(𝐵−£) sin(£+𝐵)
sin (20+35)2
kc= sin(35+15) sin(35−15)
(sin20)2 (𝑠𝑖𝑛20−15)[1+√ ]
sin(20−17) sin(17+20)
kc=17.3

6. What Coulomb’s active force for inclined backfill, kN/m?

Ɣℎ2 𝑘𝑎
F= 2
(18.7)(7)2 (17.3)
F= 2
F = 7,925.99
7. What Coulumb’s active pressure with surcharge on backfill, kN/m?
2
𝑠𝑖𝑛𝐵 2𝑞
Ɣq=Ɣ+[sin(𝐵+£)] (cos£) F=kcƔqℎ3
ℎ
𝑠𝑖𝑛20 2(41) 4.99
Ɣq=18.7+[sin (20+17)] (𝑐𝑜𝑠17) F=17.3(25.06)( )
7 3
Ɣq=25.06 F = 721.12

8. What Coulumb’s passive pressure coefficient on backfill.

𝑠𝑖𝑛2 (20+35)
kp= sin(35+15) sin(35+17)
𝑠𝑖𝑛2 20𝑠𝑖𝑛(20−15)[1−(√ )]
sin(20−15) sin(17+35)

kp=29.94

9. Calculate the Coulumb’s active force on a horizontal backfill, kN/m.

𝑠𝑖𝑛2 (𝐵+Ө)
Ka= sin(Ө+Ơ) sin(Ө+£)
𝑠𝑖𝑛2 𝐵𝑠𝑖𝑛(𝐵−Ơ)[1−(√ )]
sin(𝐵+Ơ) sin(£+𝐵)
sin (20+35)2
Ka= sin(35+15) sin(35+17)
(𝑠𝑖𝑛20)2 sin(20−15)[1−(√ )]
sin(20+15) sin 17+20

Ka=0.3

Ɣ𝑘 2 𝑘𝑎 18.7(7)2 (0.3)
F= 2 = 2
F = 137.45kN/m

10. What Coulomb’s passive force on a horizontal backfill, kN/m?

𝑠𝑖𝑛2 (𝐵−Ө)
kp= sin(Ө+Ơ) sin(Ө+£)
𝑠𝑖𝑛2 𝐵𝑠𝑖𝑛(𝐵+Ơ)[1−(√ )]
sin(𝐵+Ơ) sin(£+𝐵)
sin (90−20)2
kp= sin(30+20) sin(30−0)
(𝑠𝑖𝑛90)2 sin(90+20)[1−(√ )]
sin(90+20) sin 0+90

kp=7.19

Ɣ𝑘 2 𝑘𝑝 18.7(7)2 (7.19)
F= 2 = 2
F = 3,294.1N/m

11. Assuming the surcharge on horizontal backfill is 40kPa, where water is at top of wall used
Coulomb’s passive coefficient pressure, kN/m;
P1=qkp+2c√𝑘𝑝 P2=[qkp+Ɣkph]+2c√𝑘𝑝
P1=40(7.2)+2(12.7)√7.2 P2=[40(7.2)+20(7)+2(12.7)√7.2
P1=356.15 P2=496.15
ℎ 7
F=P1h[P2-P1]2 = 356.46(7)(496.15-356.15]2
F=8,094
12. Calculate the Coulomb’s active total force when water table within middle thirds of wall,
with surcharge, kN/m;
P1= 40(0.3) = 12
P2= [40+(18.7)(4)](0.3) = 23.52
P3= [40+18.7(2)](0.3) = 23.22
P4= [40+18.7(2)+19.2-9.81(2)](0.3) = 23.094
P5= (9.81)(2) = 19.62

13. Determine the Coulumb’s passive total active force after the tensile crack, kN/m;
P1=Ɣhkp-2ckp P2=Ɣh-2ckp
P1=18.7(7)(7.19)-2(12.7)(7.19) P2=18.7(7)-2(12.7)(7.19)
P1= 758.55 P2=-51.73
𝑃1 𝑃2 758.55 −51.73
= ℎ−𝑍 ; = ; Z=7kN/m
𝑍 2 7−𝑍

14. If a vertical braced wall supports and backfill, angle is 10°. Determine the active pressure
backwall for the braced wall. Use Coulumb’s theoty;
F=Pcos£
8094=Pcos10
P = 8218.86
15. What total force if the water level at backface is 2m? Use Coulumb’s passive pressure;
Ɣℎ2 𝑘𝑝 18.7(7)2 (7.19)
F1= 2 = 2
F1 = 3294.1kN

Ɣ𝑤ℎ2 9.81(7)2
F2 = 2 = 2
F2 = 240.35kN

F = F1 – F2
F = 3294.1 – 240.35
F = 3053.75kN

Module 12:
Soil Bearing Capacity

I. A commercial building having a loads; 25kN windload, 21kN seismic load, 60kN deadloads
and 66kN liveloads. The bottom of footing is located 2m below the ground surface, soil unit
weight is 20.4kN/𝑚2 , unconfirned compressive strength is 104kPa, angle of friction is 12°.

1. Calculate the factored maximum load of a building

P1 = 1.4DL + 1.7LL
P1 = 1.4(60) + 1.7(66)
P1 = 203.2kN
2. Determine its bearing capacity factors using Terzagki.
2(𝑁𝑞+1)𝑡𝑎𝑛Ө 2(1.92+1)tan (12)
NƔ = 1+0.4𝑠𝑖𝑛4Ө = 1+0.4𝑠𝑖𝑛4(12)
NƔ = 0.92

3. Determine the ultimate bearing capacity;

qu=1.3Cnc+ƔDNq+0.3ƔBNƔ
qu=1.3(52)(4.79)+20.4(2)(1.92)+0.3(20.4)(B)(0.89)
qu=402.14+5.45B; B=0.66
qu=405.74kPa

4. Solve for allowable required footing dimension;

𝑃𝑢 176.8
qu= 𝐴 = 𝐵2
176.8
= 402.14 + 5.45B
𝐵2
𝐵 = 0.66𝑚

II. From the above load produces deflection of 0.10inch under a plate of a diameter 21inched.

5. Calculate the stress, kPa;

𝑃 176.8(4)
S = 𝑎 = 𝜋(0.508)2
S = 872.298

6. Determine its module of subgrade reaction;

𝑆 872.298
E = £ = 0.003
E = 290,800𝑘𝑁/𝑚3
7. Calculate its maximum stress if its eccentricity is 0.25m;
0.66
𝑃 𝑀𝐶 176.8 176.8(0.25)( )
2
Sm = 𝐴 + = + 0.66 3
𝐼 0.66 ( )(0.66)
2
Smax = 1265.22kPa
III.Plate load test was conducted in a sandy soil which the size of bearing plate is 0.3m x 0.3m,
the ultimate load is 173kPa, the footing required is 1.7m square for restaurants.

8. Calculate the ultimate allowable bearing capacity for footing, kPa;

𝑃𝑓 1.7
quF=qup(𝐵𝑃) = 173(0.3)
quF = 980.33kPa

9. Determine the net ultimate bearing strength;

𝑞𝑢𝑓 980.33
qwet= 𝐹𝑆 = 3.0
qwet=326.77kPa

10. Compute the allowable load for footing could carry;

𝑃𝑎𝑙𝑙
Quwet= 𝐴𝑓 =
Pall=326.77(1.7)2
 Pall = 944.4kN

IV. A square footing is to be constructed to carry a load of 500kN, if the allowable settlement is
25mm. the plate loads are 20kN for 0.30m square and 70kN for 0.60m square plates.

11. What unit shear stress at perimeter of footing?

30=(0.30)2 (326.77) + 4(0.3)𝑆
S = -0.0088

12. What allowable footing is required?

Q = 𝐵 2 (𝑞) + 𝑃𝑠
500 = 𝐵 2(326.77)+4(-0.0088)(B)
B = 1.24
V. Using a modified bearing equation, a footing having a dimension of 1.2m square has its
bottom located at a depth of 1.2m below the ground. The ground water table is located at 0.6m
below the ground surface, unit weight is 18kN/𝑚3 , cohesion less soil, angle of friction is 30°,
saturated unit weight is 22kN/𝑚2 , factor of safety is 3.

13. Calculate the cohesive shape factors;

Xcs = 1.46

14. What depth factors for bearing capacity?

𝑃𝑓
Xqd = 1+2tanӨ(1-sinӨ)2 ( 𝑃 )
Xqd = 1.28

15. Calculate its cohesive depth factor;

1−𝑋𝑞𝑑
Xcd = Xqd-(𝑁𝑞𝑡𝑎𝑛Ө)
1−1.28
Xcd = 1.28 - 9.82(𝑡𝑎𝑛30)
Xcd = 1.33

16. What shape bearing capacity factor?

𝐵
Xqs = 1+𝐶 (𝑡𝑎𝑛Ө)
1.2
Xqs = 1 + 1.2(tan30)
Xqs = 1.57

17. What is the bearing pressure of soil, kPa?

Ɣsub = Ɣsat – Ɣw
Ɣsub = 22-9.81
Ɣsub = 12.19

q = Ɣsub(Du) + Ɣsub(Dw)
q = 18.51kPa

18. What ultimate soil pressure, kPa?

 q = CTcs+Tcdnc+qTqsRqc1Nq+0.5TƔsTƔdƔsub(B)NƔ
q = 625.11kPa

19. What ultimate allowable soil bearing pressure, kPa?

𝑞𝑢 625.11
qall = 𝑞𝑠 = 3
qall = 208.37