Question

In practical case under a finite surface loading the intensity σ’ ______ with depth of layer.

(a) decreases

(b) increases

(c) remains constant

(d) has negligible effect

The question was asked in a job interview.

Question is from Consolidation Process topic in portion One Dimensional Consolidation of Geotechnical Engineering I

Answer 1

Right choice is (a) decreases

The explanation: In practical case under a finite surface loading the intensity σ’ decreases with depth of layer. In theoretical case, the pressure increment is transmitted uniformly over a thickness H of the soil layer.