Question

When the maximum vertical stress is 0.111 kN/m^2 at a radial distance of 4m from the point load is __________ kN.

(a) 0

(b) 10

(c) 20

(d) 30

I have been asked this question by my college director while I was bunking the class.

Origin of the question is Stress Distribution topic in section Stress Distribution of Geotechnical Engineering I

Answer 1

Correct option is (c) 20

For explanation: Given,

(σz)max=0.111 kN/m^2

r=4m

since the maximum vertical stress is

\((σ_z)_{max}=\frac{0.0888Q}{r^2} \)

∴ \(Q=\frac{(σ_z)_{max} r^2}{0.0888} \)

∴ \(Q=\frac{0.111*4^2}{0.0888} \)

Q=20 kN.