Question

The symbol σ̅, represent which of the following term?

(a) Ultimate bearing capacity

(b) Effective surcharge

(c) Gross pressure intensity

(d) Bearing capacity

The question was posed to me during an interview.

I need to ask this question from Minimum Depth of Foundation: Rankine’s Analysis in chapter Bearing Capacity of Geotechnical Engineering II

Answer 1

Right answer is (b) Effective surcharge

To explain I would say: σ̅ represents the effective surcharge at the base level of the foundation, assuming total unit weight for the portion of the soil above the water table and submerged unit weight for the portion below the water table.