Question

The theoretical maximum compaction for any given water content corresponds to ______

(a) least specific gravity

(b) maximum specific gravity

(c) zero air void condition

(d) only air voids present without the presence of water

This question was addressed to me at a job interview.

I want to ask this question from Modified Proctor Test and Harvard Miniature Compaction Test topic in portion Compaction of Geotechnical Engineering I

Answer 1

The correct choice is (c) zero air void condition

The explanation is: Compaction is a process by which the soil particles are artificially rearranged into a closer state. This arrangement reduces the voids ratio. When the voids present in between the soil particles are completely filled by the water, then it has no air voids. This zero air void condition, corresponds to the theoretical maximum compaction for any given water content.