Question

For a finite surface loading, the intensity of change in effective pressure decreases with depth of layer in linear manner.

(a) True

(b) False

I have been asked this question during an interview.

The origin of the question is Consolidation Process in section One Dimensional Consolidation of Geotechnical Engineering I

Answer 1

Correct choice is (b) False

The explanation is: For a finite surface loading as in the case of practical loads, the intensity of change in effective pressure decreases with depth of layer in non-linear manner. In such cases, the consolidation settlement ∆ρf of element of thickness dz is calculated under average effective pressure increment ∆σ’.