General shear failure beneath a shallow footing is most commonly associated with:
Correct answer: D. Dense sand and stiff clay
- A. Loose sand and very soft clay
- B. Highly organic peat deposits
- C. Uniformly saturated silt only
- D. Dense sand and stiff clay
Explanation
General shear failure develops through a well-defined failure surface and is typical of dense sands and stiff, overconsolidated clays. Loose and soft soils more commonly exhibit local shear or punching type failure.
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About Soil Mechanics and Foundations
Soil mechanics examines index properties, phase relationships, classification, permeability, seepage, compaction, consolidation, shear strength and earth pressure. Foundations apply these principles to bearing capacity, settlement and shallow or deep foundation selection, with clear distinction between compaction, which expels air, and consolidation, which expels water over time.
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