Civil Engineering Soil Mechanics and Foundation Engineering Quiz (or) MCQ

1 .

Geologic cycle for the formation of soil, is_________.

A) Weathering → upheaval → transportation → deposition

B) Weathering → transportation → deposition → upheaval

C) Upheavel → transportation → deposition → weathering

D) Transportation → upheaval → weathering → deposition

Correct Answer : Weathering → transportation → deposition → upheaval

2 .

Pick up the correct statement from the following :

A) Illites do not swell when wet

B) Illite bond is weaker than Kaolinite bond

C) Illite bond is stronger than montmorillonite bond

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

Explanation : * Illites do not swell when wet
* Illite bond is weaker than Kaolinite bond
* Illite bond is stronger than montmorillonite bond
* Illites are composed of two silica tetrahedralsheets with a central octahedral sheet

3 .

Pick up the cohesive soil from the following :

A) Clay

B) Red earth

C) Black cotton soil

D) Compacted ground

Correct Answer : Black cotton soil

4 .

A soil mass in a three-phase system consists of _____

A) sand, gravel and air

B) solids, water and air

C) solids and air only

D) solids and water only

Correct Answer : solids, water and air

Explanation : Solids and water, solids and air are two-phase systems. Sand, gravel and air are not the phases. Solids, water and air are considered to be a three-phase system of the soil mass.

5 .

A soil has a dry unit weight of 17 kN/m³ and water content of 20%, then what will be its bulk unit weight?

A) 20.4 kN/m³

B) 19.3 kN/m³

C) 24.4 kN/m³

D) 22.6 kN/m³

Correct Answer : 20.4 kN/m³

Explanation : Dry unit weight γd = 17 kN/m³
Water content w = 20% = 0.2
Bulk unit weight γ = γd *(1+w)
γ = 17*(1+0.2)
γ = 20.4 kN/m³.

6 .

Soils containing organic matters_____.

A) are of spongy nature

B) swell with decrease of moisture

C) shrink with increase of moisture content

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : are of spongy nature

7 .

The density index ID does not express the relative compactness of a natural cohesion-less soil.

A) True

B) False

C) Can not say

D) --

Correct Answer : True

Explanation : The density index is used to express the relative compactness or degree of compaction of a natural cohesion-less soil deposit. It is also known as relative density or degree of density.

8 .

The coefficient of curvature for a well graded soil, must be between_____.

A) 4.0 to 5.0

B) 3.0 to 4.0

C) 1.0 to 3.0

D) 0.5 to 1.0

Correct Answer : 1.0 to 3.0

9 .

If the soil sample has porosity of 30% and specific gravity of solids G=2.7, then its dry unit weight will be ______

A) 18.350 kN/m³

B) 18.545 kN/m³

C) 18.535 kN/m³

D) 18.640 kN/m³

Correct Answer : 18.535 kN/m³

Explanation : Porosity n=30%=0.3
Specific gravity G=2.7
Voids ratio e = n / (1-n)
e=0.3/(1-0.3)=0.429
Dry unit weight γd = Gγw/(1-e)
γd=(2.7*9.81)/(11+0.429)
γd=18.535 kN/m³

10 .

The method of the slices is applicable to______.

A) saturated soils

B) homogenous soils

C) stratified soils

D) non-uniform slopes

Correct Answer : homogenous soils

11 .

The loosest stable arrangement of equal sized spheres is obtained when the sphere centres form a ______ space lattice.

A) rectangular

B) hexagonal

C) triangular

D) rhombohedral

Correct Answer : rectangular

Explanation : When the sphere centres form a rectangular space lattice, then they form a packing known as cubic packing, wherein each sphere is in contact with six surrounding neighbouring spheres.

12 .

The weight of a pycnometer containing 400 g sand and water full to the top is 2150 g. The weight of pycnometer full of clean water is 1950 g. If specific gravity of the soil is 2.5, the water content is________.

A) 5%

B) 10%

C) 15%

D) 20%

Correct Answer : 20%

13 .

The clay soil mainly consists of________.

A) Illites

B) Kaolinites

C) Montomorillonite

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

Explanation : * Illites
* Kaolinites .
* Montomorillonite
* Vermiculite

14 .

Pile foundations are generally preferred to for_________.

A) runways

B) bridge foundations

C) sky scrapper buildings

D) residential buildings

Correct Answer : sky scrapper buildings

15 .

The volume of voids Vv is equal to the sum of ______

A) the volume of air and volume of solids

B) the volume of air and volume of water

C) the volume of water and volume of solids

D) the volume of water and the weight of water

Correct Answer : the volume of air and volume of water

Explanation : The voids in soil mass are occupied by air and water. Hence, the volume of voids equals to the volume of air and volume of water.

16 .

The phase diagram is also known as _____

A) block diagram

B) element diagram

C) soil grain diagram

D) constituents diagram

Correct Answer : block diagram

Explanation : It is always convenient to show the constituents occupying separate spaces as blocks. In the phase diagram, the soil occupies the bottom position. Water and air occupy the middle and top positions.

17 .

In the phase diagram, volumes are represented on the _____

A) top

B) bottom

C) left side

D) right side

Correct Answer : left side

Explanation : Volumes are represented on the left side whereas weights are represented on the right side of the block diagram.

18 .

Determination of water content of a soil sample suspected to contain gypsum is made by drying the sample for longer period at a temperature not more than______.

A) 50°C

B) 80°C

C) 100°C

D) 120°C

Correct Answer : 80°C

19 .

A soil not fully consolidated under the existing over-burden pressure, is called_______.

A) under-consolidated

B) pre-consolidated

C) normally consolidated

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : under-consolidated

20 .

The density index of natural deposit in its densest state is _____

A) 0

B) 0.5

C) 1

D) 1.5

Correct Answer : 1

21 .

A soil has porosity of 30%. Its voids ratio in the loosest and densest state is 0.35 and 0.92 respectively. What will be its density index?

A) 0.881

B) 0.872

C) 0.865

D) 0.861

Correct Answer : 0.861

22 .

A moist soil sample weighing 108 g has a volume of 60 cc. If water content is 25% and value of G = 2.52, the void ratio is______.

A) 0.80

B) 0.75

C) 0.65

D) 0.55

Correct Answer : 0.75

23 .

The shear resistance of a soil is con-tituted basically of the following component.

A) Cohesion and adhesion between the surfaces of the soil particles

B) To the structural relation to displacement of the soil because of the interlocking of the particles

C) The frictional resistance to translocation between the individual soil particles at their contact point

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

24 .

Water formed transported soil is_____.

A) loess

B) marine

C) alluvial

D) lacustrine

Correct Answer : alluvial

25 .

The relative density of loose granular soil is given by the range ______ in percentage.

A) 0-15

B) 15-35

C) 35-65

D) 85-100

Correct Answer : 15-35

Explanation :

Relative Density (%)	Density Description
0-15	Very loose
15-35	Loose
35-65	Medium
65-85	Dense
85-100	Very Dense

26 .

The angle of internal friction of clays, is usually______.

A) 5° to 20°

B) 20° to 30°

C) 30° to 45°

D) 40° to 55°

Correct Answer : 5° to 20°

27 .

The specific yield of soil depends upon______.

A) distribution of pores

B) compaction of stratum

C) shape and size of particles

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

28 .

When the seepage pressure becomes equal to the pressure due to submerged weight of a soil, the effective pressure is reduced to zero and the soil particles have a tendency to move up in the direction of flow. This phenomenon is generally known_______.

A) quick sand

B) quick condition

C) boiling condition

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

29 .

When the soil is fully saturated with its specific gravity of solids G=2.7 and voids ratio e=0.667, its water content is ______

A) 1

B) 0.326

C) 0.247

D) 0.543

Correct Answer : 0.247

Explanation : Degree of saturation S=1
Specific gravity G=2.7
Voids ratio e = (W*G)/S = Wsat*G
Wsat = e/G
Wsat = 0.667/2.7
Wsat = 0.247.

30 .

The angle of internal friction is maximum for_________.

A) angular-grained loose sand

B) angular-grained dense sand

C) round-grained dense sand

D) round-grained loose sand

Correct Answer : angular-grained dense sand

31 .

A grillage foundation__________.

A) is treated as spread foundation

B) is provided for heavily loaded isolated columns

C) consists of two sets of perpendicularly placed steel beams

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

32 .

The porosity of cubic packing is ______

A) 47.64%

B) 42.66%

C) 30.21%

D) 25.95%

Correct Answer : 47.64%

Explanation : Consider a unit cube of soil having spherical particles of diameter d.
Volume of each spherical particle = (π/6)d³
Total volume of container = 1*1*1=1
No. of solids in the container = (1/d)*(1/d)*(1/d)=(1/d³)
Volume of the solids Vs = (π/6)*d³*(1/d³)=(π/6)
Volume of the voids Vv = 1-(π/6)
Voids ratio e = (1-(π/6))/(π/6)
Porosity n = e/(1+e) = 0.9099/(+0.9099) = 0.4764
In percentage, n = 47.64%.

33 .

A stratum of clay 2 m thick will get consolidated 80% in 10 years. For the 80% consolidation of 8 m thick stratum of the same clay, the time required is_______.

A) 120 years

B) 140 years

C) 160 years

D) 180 years

Correct Answer : 160 years

34 .

The maximum net pressure intensity causing shear failure of soil, is known _________.

A) safe bearing capacity

B) net ultimate bearing capacity

C) ultimate bearing capacity

D) net safe bearing capacity

Correct Answer : net ultimate bearing capacity

35 .

The weight of solids is represented as _______

A) Wd

B) Ww

C) Wa

D) W

Correct Answer : Wd

Explanation : The weights of Water, air and total weight are represented as Ww, Wa and W. The weight of solids is represented as Wd or Ws in the phase diagram.

36 .

The total weight of the moist sample is the sum of _______

A) Wv

B) Wa+Wd

C) Wa+Ww

D) Ww+Wd

Correct Answer : Ww+Wd

Explanation : The sum of the weight of voids Wv and weight of solid is the total weight. The weight of total voids is equal to the weight of Water and weight of air. Since the weight of air is considered to be negligible, the weight of total voids is equal to the weight of Water. Therefore, the total weight of the moist sample is the sum of Ww+Wd.

37 .

The liquidity index is defined as a ratio expressed as percentage of_______.

A) natural water content plus its plastic limit to its plasticity index

B) liquid limit minus the natural water content to the plasticity index

C) natural water content minus its plastic limit to its plasticity index

D) plastic limit minus the natural water content, to its plasticity index

Correct Answer : natural water content minus its plastic limit to its plasticity index

38 .

A decrease in water content results in a reduction of the volume of a soil in_______.

A) plastic state

B) liquid state

C) semi solid state

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

39 .

The compressibility of clays, is caused due to :

A) bending of particles as elastic sheets

B) sliping of particles to new positions of greater density

C) expulsion of double layer water from in between the grains

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

40 .

Pick up the correct statement from the following :

A) In hydrometer method, weight Wd per ml of suspension is found directly

B) In pipette analysis, weight Wd per ml of suspension is found directly

C) In pipette analysis, weight Wd per ml of suspension is found indirectly

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : In pipette analysis, weight Wd per ml of suspension is found directly

41 .

The phreatic line in an earth dam may be_______.

A) circular

B) elliptical

C) parabolic

D) a straight line

Correct Answer : parabolic

42 .

The shearing strength of a cohesion-less soil depends upon______.

A) dry density

B) rate of loading

C) nature of loading

D) confining pressure

Correct Answer : confining pressure

43 .

According to IS : 2720 - 1965, the composition of a dispersing solution used in pipette analysis for determining the size of particles, is

A) sodium-hexametaphosphate 33 g, sodium carbonate 7 g and distilled water one litre

B) sodium-hexametaphosphate 7 g, sodium carbonate 33 g and distilled water one litre

C) sodium-hexametaphosphate 23 g, sodium carbonate 17 g and distilled water one litre

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : sodium-hexametaphosphate 33 g, sodium carbonate 7 g and distilled water one litre

44 .

Cohesive soils are generally________.

A) plastic but incompressible

B) plastic and also compressible

C) elastic and also compressible

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : plastic and also compressible

45 .

A soil has porosity of 40% and air content of 50%.What will be its percentage air voids?

A) 20%

B) 30%

C) 50%

D) 60%

Correct Answer : 20%

Explanation : Porosity n = 40% = 0.4
Air content a_c = 50% = 0.5
Percentage air voids na= n*a_c
na = 0..4*0.5
na = 20%.

46 .

If a soil has a void ratio of 0.64, specific gravity of solids as 2.65, then its saturated unit weight will be ______

A) 24.5 kN/m³

B) 25 kN/m³

C) 19.5 kN/m³

D) 25.5 kN/m³

Correct Answer : 19.5 kN/m³

Explanation : Voids ratio e = 0.6
Specific gravity G = 2.65
Saturated unit weight γ_sat = (G+e) γ_w/ (1+e)
γ_sat = (2.65+0.6)*9.81/(1+0.6)
γ_sat= 19.927 N/m³.

47 .

The plasticity of fine soils may be assessed by means of_____.

A) dilatancy test

B) toughness test

C) dry strength test

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

48 .

The density of soil can be increased

A) by expelling water from pores

B) by elastic compression of soil grains

C) by reducing the space occupied by air

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

49 .

The length/diameter ratio of cylindrical specimens used in triaxial test, is generally____.

A) 1

B) 1.5

C) 2

D) 2.5

Correct Answer : 2

50 .

The angle of orientation of the spheres in the maximum possible voids ratio is ______

A) 90°

B) 75°

C) 60°

D) 40°

Correct Answer : 90°

Explanation : The soil will have maximum possible voids when the soil grains are arranged in a cubical array of spheres. In a cubical array, the angle of orientation α = 90°.

51 .

The porosity of intermediate packing factor is given by ______

A) n = (1-cosα)*( √(1+2cosα) )

B) n = 1-[π/(6*(1-cosα)*(√(1-2cosα))]

C) n = 6*(1-cosα)*(√(1-2cosα))

D) n = 1-[1/(6*(1-cosα)*( √(1-2cosα) )]

Correct Answer : n = 1-[π/(6*(1-cosα)*(√(1-2cosα))]

Explanation : The formula was given by Slichter. In an intermediate packing, the centres of any 8 spheres, originally arranged in a cubic packing form the corners of the rhombohedron, with an acute face angle α.

52 .

The volume of the solids in a unit cell is given by ______

A) π/6

B) π/4

C) 2π/3

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : π/6

Explanation : Consider a unit cell,
Volume of each spherical particle = (π/6)*d³
Total volume of container=1*1*1=1
No. of solids in the container=(1/d)*(1/d)*(1/d)=(1/d³)
Volume of the solids Vs=(π/6)*d³*(1/d³)=(π/6).

53 .

The factor which affects the compaction, is

A) type of soil

B) moisture content

C) compacting content

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

54 .

The compression resulting from a long term static load and consequent escape of pore water, is known as________.

A) swelling

B) compaction

C) consolidation

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : consolidation

55 .

Soil classification of composite soils, exclusively based on the particle size distribution, is known__________.

A) particle classification

B) textural classification

C) unified soil classification

D) High Way Research Board classification

Correct Answer : textural classification

56 .

The minimum centre to centre distance of friction piles of 1 m diameter, is_____.

A) 2 m

B) 2 m to 3 m

C) 3 m to 4 m

D) 5 m

Correct Answer : 3 m to 4 m

57 .

A soil sample weighs 190kN. After oven drying it weighs 150kN. What will be the weight of Water before oven drying?

A) 40 kN

B) 35 kN

C) 30 kN

D) 25 kN

Correct Answer : 40 kN

Explanation : Weight of soil sample W=190kN
Weight after oven drying Wd=150kN
Weight of Water Ww=W-Wd
Ww=190-150
Ww=40kN.

58 .

In wet soil mass, air occupies one-seventh of its volume and Water occupies one- eighth of its volume. What will be the ratio of volume of voids with respect to the total volume?

A) 0.286

B) 0.279

C) 0.329

D) 0.432

Correct Answer : 0.286

Explanation : Volume of Water Va= (1/7) total volume V
Volume of Water VW= (1/8) total volume V
Volume of voids Vv= Va + Vw
Vv=(1/7)V+(1/8)V
Vv=(15/56)V=0.268V.

59 .

The fluid generally used for grouting is_______.

A) sodium silicate

B) clay suspension

C) cement and water mix

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

60 .

A coarse-grained soil has a voids ratio 0.75, and specific gravity as 2.75. The critical gradient at which quick sand condition occurs, is______.

A) 0

B) 1.00

C) 0.75

D) 0.50

Correct Answer : 1.00

61 .

Back fill with a sloping surface exerts a total active pressure Pa on the wall of height H and acts at

A) H/2 above the base parallel to base

B) H/3 above the base parallel to base

C) H/4 above the base parallel to base

D) H/5 above the base parallel to base.

Correct Answer : H/3 above the base parallel to base

62 .

A phreatic line is defined as the line within a dam section below which there are________.

A) negative equipotential lines

B) positive equipotential lines

C) positive hydrostatic pressure

D) negative hydrostatic pressure

Correct Answer : positive hydrostatic pressure

63 .

The ratio of the difference between the void ratio of the soil in its loosest state and its natural void ratio (e) to the difference between the void ratios in the loosest and fully dense state, is generally termed as_________.

A) relativity

B) density index

C) degree of density

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

64 .

'Loess' is silty clay formed by the action of______.

A) wind

B) water

C) glacier

D) gravitational force

Correct Answer : wind

65 .

The maximum possible value nf dry density is referred to as______.

A) dry density

B) zero air voids

C) saturation dry density

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

66 .

Failure of a slope occurs only when total shear force is_______.

A) equal to total shearing strength

B) less than total shearing strength

C) greater than total shearing strength

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : greater than total shearing strength

67 .

Pick up the correct statement from the following :

A) A soil having pH value more than 7 is an acidic soil

B) A soil having pH value less than 7 is an acidic soil

C) A soil having pH value more than 7 is an alkaline soil

D) A soil containing chemicals for the manufacture of portland cement is preferred.

Correct Answer : A soil having pH value less than 7 is an acidic soil

68 .

Cohesionless soil is_______.

A) silt

B) sand

C) clay

D) clay and silt

Correct Answer : sand

69 .

If the coefficient of the active pressure Ka is 1/3, the coefficient of passive pressure Kp, is___.

A) 3

B) 3/2

C) 1

D) 1/3

Correct Answer : 3

70 .

The inventor of the term soil mechanics, was_______.

A) Kray

B) Ralph Brazelton Peck

C) Arthur Casagrande

D) Karl Terzaghi

Correct Answer : Karl Terzaghi

Explanation : If civil engineering were a game, Karl Terzaghi had a right to lay down the rules—he had invented and established much of the groundwork.

Terzhaghi (1883-1963) is one of the leading civil engineers of the 20th century and is widely known as the father of soil mechanics.

71 .

Compression of soil occurs rapidly if voids are filled with______.

A) air

B) water

C) partly with air and partly with water

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : air

72 .

If a soil has a void ratio of 0.6 and a specific gravity of 2.7, then its submerged unit weight will be ______

A) 9.256

B) 9.678

C) 10.423

D) 11.502

Correct Answer : 10.423

Explanation : Voids ratio e=0.6
Specific gravity G=2.7
Submerged unit weight Y’ = (G -1) Yw/ (1+e)
Y’ = (2.7-1)*9.81/(1+0.6)
Y’ = 10.423 kN/m³.

73 .

The bearing capacity of a soil depends upon_______.

A) size of the particles

B) shape of the particles

C) cohesive properties of particles

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

Explanation : * size of the particles
* shape of the particles
* cohesive properties of particles
* internal frictional resistance of particles

74 .

A direct shear test possesses the following disadvantage :

A) A relatively thin thickness of sample permits quick drainage

B) As the test progresses the area under shear, gradually changes

C) A relatively thin thickness of sample permits quick dissipation of pore pressure developed during the test

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : As the test progresses the area under shear, gradually changes

75 .

Through a point in a loaded soil mass, there exists n typical planes mutually orthogonal on which the stress is wholly normal and no shear stress acts, if n is___.

A) 1

B) 2

C) 3

D) 4

Correct Answer : 3

76 .

In the densest state of packing, each sphere is in contact with ______ neighbouring spheres.

A) 12

B) 8

C) 6

D) 4

Correct Answer : 12

Explanation : In the densest state of packing, sphere centres form a rhombohedral array with face angle α=60°. Thus, each sphere is in contact with 12 neighbouring spheres.

77 .

The total volume of rhombohedron with face angle 60° is _______

A) 0.5

B) 0.7071

C) 0.9099

D) 1

Correct Answer : 0.7071

Explanation : The total volume of rhombohedron is given by,
V = (1-cosα)*(√(1+2cosα))
V = (1-cos60°)*(√(1+2 cos60°))
V = 0.7071.

78 .

The minimum possible void ratio of uniformly graded spherical grains is _______

A) 0.20

B) 0.25

C) 0.30

D) 0.35

Correct Answer : 0.35

Explanation : Consider a unit cube of soil having spherical particles of diameter d.
Volume of the solids Vs= (π/6)=0.5236
The total volume V=(1-cosα)*(√(1+2cosα))
Minimum void ratio is possible in densest state with α=60°
∴ V=(1-cos60°)*(√(1+2cos60°))
V=0.7071
Volume of the voids Vv=V-Vs=0.7071-0.5236
Vv=0.1835
Voids ratio e= Vv/ Vs=0.1835/0.5236
∴ e=0.35.

79 .

The volume if voids of a rhombohedral array of spherical grains with α=75° is _______

A) 0.3595

B) 0.3895

C) 0.4266

D) 0.7439

Correct Answer : 0.3895

Explanation : α=75°
The total volume V=(1-cosα)*(√(1+2cosα))
∴ V=(1-cos75°)*(√(1+2cos75°))
V=0.9131
Volume of the solids Vs=(π/6)=0.5236
Volume of the voids Vv=V-Vs=0.9131-0.5236
Vv=0.3895.

80 .

The pressure that builds up in pore water due to load increment on the soil, is termed_____.

A) excess pore pressure

B) hydrodynamic pressure

C) excess hydrostatic pressure

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

81 .

The ratio of e_max and e_min of silty sand, is :

A) 2.0

A)

B) 3.0

B)

C) 3.5

C)

D) 5.0

D)

Correct Answer : 3.0

82 .

Depending upon the properties of a material, the failure envelope may_____.

A) be either straight or curved

B) intersect the shear stress axis

C) pass through the origin of stress

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

83 .

The maximum water content at which a reduction in water content does not cause a decrease in volume of a soil mass, is known______.

A) shrinkage limit

B) plastic limit

C) liquid limit

D) permeability limit

Correct Answer : shrinkage limit

84 .

A sample of saturated soil has 30% water content and the specific gravity of soil grains is 2.6. The dry density of the soil mass in g/cm3, is_____.

A) 1

B) 1.47

C) 1.82

D) 1.91

Correct Answer : 1.47

85 .

The specific gravity of sands, is approximately_______.

A) 2.2

B) 2.4

C) 2.6

D) 2.9

Correct Answer : 2.6

86 .

The water content of a soil sample cannot be determined by _____ method.

A) pipette

B) alcohol

C) oven drying

D) calcium carbide

Correct Answer : pipette

Explanation : The pipette method is the standard sedimentation method used in laboratory for wet mechanical or sedimentation analysis.

87 .

In oven drying method, the soil sample is kept for about ______ hours in the oven.

A) 1

B) 3

C) 24

D) 48

Correct Answer : 24

Explanation : For complete drying, sandy soil takes about 4 hours and fat clays take about 14 to 16 hours. To assure complete drying of sample, it is kept for about 24 hours.

88 .

In hydrometer method, the sampling depth h is kept at a constant of __________

A) 14 cm

B) 10 cm

C) 9 cm

D) 8 cm

Correct Answer : 10 cm

Explanation : The sampling depth (h) in hydrometer method is taken as 10 cm.

89 .

In calibration of hydrometer reading, the reduced reading are designated as _________

A) RL

B) RR

C) RS

D) RH

Correct Answer : RH

Explanation : The reducing reading is designated as RH, which is used for calibration of hydrometer.

90 .

The ratio of the weight of given volume of soil solids to the weight of an equal volume of distilled water at the given temperature, is known______.

A) porosity

B) void ratio

C) specific gravity

D) water content

Correct Answer : specific gravity

91 .

The ultimate Settlement of a soil is directly proportional to :

A) void ratio

B) compressive index

C) depth of the compressible soil strata

D) Both (B) and (C)

Correct Answer : Both (B) and (C)

92 .

The property of a soil which allows it to be deformed rapidly, without rupture is _________

A) Plasticity

B) Tenacity

C) Elasticity

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : Plasticity

Explanation : Plasticity is the property of a soil which allows it to be deformed rapidly, without rupture, without elastic rebound and without volume change.

93 .

The ratio of liquid limit, minus the natural water content to the plasticity index of the soil is _______.

A) Consistency index

B) Plasticity index

C) Both (A) and (B)

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : Consistency index

Explanation : consistency index or relative consistency is defined as the ratio of liquid limit, minus the natural water content to the plasticity index of the soil.

94 .

Which of the following is exhibited by collapsible soil?

A) Silts where cementing agent is soluble

B) Loose bulky grains hold together by capillary stresses

C) Both (A) and (B)

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : Loose bulky grains hold together by capillary stresses

Explanation : A common feature of collapsible soil is the loose bulky grain held together by capillary stresses.

95 .

The researchers who have provided guidance for identifying the potential, foot clayey sand and sand clay found in western US is ________

A) Macveren

B) Holtz and Gibbs

C) Both (A) and (B)

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : Holtz and Gibbs

Explanation : In 1967, Holtz and Gibbs provide guidance for identifying the potential collapsible soil in arid and semi-arid regions.

96 .

If the collapsible potential values of the soil are 0-1 %.what will be the severity of the problem?

A) Severe problem

B) Moderate problem

C) No problem

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : No problem

Explanation : The severity of the problem will be zero, if the CP value lies between 0-1 percent.

97 .

According to the Indian Standards the specific gravity is the ratio of the unit weight of soil solids to that of water at a temperature of

A) 17°C

B) 23°C

C) 27°C

D) 30°C

Correct Answer : 27°C

98 .

The maximum load carried by a pile, when it continues to sink without further increase of load, is known as__________.

A) ultimate bearing capacity

B) ultimate bearing resistant

C) ultimate load carrying capacity

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

99 .

The soil which contains finest grain particles, is______.

A) clay

B) silt

C) fine sand

D) coarse sand

Correct Answer : clay

100 .

The angle between the directions of the failure and the major principal plane, is equal to___________.

A) 90° + effective angle of shearing resistance

B) 90° + half of the angle of shearing resistance

C) 45° - half of the angle of shearing resistance

D) 45° + half of the angle of shearing resistance

Correct Answer : 45° + half of the angle of shearing resistance

101 .

For a clay slope of height of 10 m, the stability number is 0.05, γ = 2.0 t/m³, C = 2.5 t/m², the critical height of the slope of the soil, is____.

A) 4.0 m

B) 12.5 m

C) 15.0 m

D) 25.0 m

Correct Answer : 25.0 m

102 .

Specific surface is termed as _________

A) Total area of soil particles

B) Total surface area in a unit mass

C) Total volume of soil particles

D) Ratio of total surface to the total volume

Correct Answer : Total surface area in a unit mass

Explanation : Specific surface is usually defined as the total surface area of the soil particle in a unit mass.

103 .

Specific surface of the soil particle increase very rapidly, as the grain size ________

A) Decreases

B) Bulges

C) Increases

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : Decreases

Explanation : The subdivision of a mass yields greater surface area than the same mass itself. The specific surface of a mass increases as the grain size decreases.

104 .

A factor, which is important for the magnitude of specific surface of soil particles is_______

A) Grain size

B) Grain molecular structure

C) Grain shape

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : Grain shape

Explanation : Specific surface varies for different shapes of particle having the same mass. Hence grain shape is important factor for determining specific surface.

105 .

Soil classification based on the particle size distribution is _________

A) IS classification

B) Unified soil classification

C) Textural classification

D) Particle size classification

Correct Answer : Textural classification

Explanation : Soil classification of composite soils exclusively based on the particle size distribution is known as textural classification.

106 .

The best known classification system in textural classification is _________

A) Indian classification system

B) International classification

C) M.I.T. classification system

D) Triangular classification of U.S. public road administration

Correct Answer : Triangular classification of U.S. public road administration

Explanation : Triangular classification of U.S. public road administration is a commonly used system for textural classification.

107 .

The shearing force acting along the slice of a curved surface of slippage, causes the soil to slide_____.

A) down at the toe

B) down at the centre

C) upward at the centre

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : down at the centre

108 .

The seepage exit gradient in a soil is the ratio of__________.

A) head loss to the length of the seepage

B) flow line to slope

C) total head to the length of seepage

D) head upstream to that at downstream

Correct Answer : head loss to the length of the seepage

109 .

Sedimentation analysis is based on the assumption :

A) soil particles are spherical

B) walls of the jar do not affect the settlement

C) particles settle independent of other particles

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

110 .

Unified soil classification system (USCS) was developed by _______

A) Kozney

B) Rankine

C) Casagrande

D) Atterberg

Correct Answer : Casagrande

Explanation : In 1940, casagrande originally developed the unified soil classification system (USCS).

111 .

The USCS system was used for which of the following purpose during World War 2?

A) Foundation

B) Earth slopes

C) Dam construction

D) Air field construction

Correct Answer : Air field construction

Explanation : In the earlier stages of World War 2, the USCS system was used for air field construction.

112 .

According to USCS, the fined grained soil are classified on the basis of ________

A) Plasticity

B) Group index

C) Grain size distribution

D) Particle size composition

Correct Answer : Plasticity

Explanation : According to USCS the fine grained soils, whose behavior is controlled by plasticity, are classified on the basis of their plasticity.

113 .

If drainage is permitted throughout the test, during the application of both normal, and shear stresses so that full consolidation occurs and no excess pore pressure is set up at any stage of the test, is known as

A) quick test

B) drained test

C) consolidated undrained test

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : drained test

114 .

A soil sample of mass specific gravity 1.92, has a moisture content 30%. If the specific gravity of solids is 2.75, the degree of saturation, is____.

A) 95.4%

B) 95.5%

C) 95.6%

D) 95.7%

Correct Answer : 95.7%

115 .

The Indian standard soil classification system, (ISCS) was first developed in _____

A) 1951

B) 1956

C) 1959

D) 1963

Correct Answer : 1959

Explanation : The Indian standard classification system (ISCS) was first developed in 1959 and revised in 1970.

116 .

According to ISCS, fine grained soils are subdivided in to _______

A) 5

B) 4

C) 3

D) 2

Correct Answer : 3

Explanation : Fine grained soil are subdivided into 3 types :

* Inorganic silts and very fine sands
* Inorganic clays
* Organic silts and clay and organic matter.

117 .

The ISCS classifies the soil in to ______

A) 18 groups

B) 16 groups

C) 15 groups

D) 12 groups

Correct Answer : 18 groups

Explanation : The ISCS classifies the soil into 18 groups as against 15 groups of USCS.

118 .

A flow net may be utilised for the determination of____.

A) seepage

B) exit gradient

C) hydrostatic pressure

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

Explanation : * seepage
* exit gradient
* hydrostatic pressure
* seepage pressure

119 .

The neutral stress in a soil mass is_______.

A) force per neutral area

B) stess taken up by the pore water

C) force per effective area

D) stress taken up by solid particles

Correct Answer : stess taken up by the pore water

120 .

If voids ratio is 0.67, water content is 0.188 and specific gravity is 2.68, the degree of saturation of the soil, is_____.

A) 75%

B) 60%

C) 40%

D) 25%

Correct Answer : 75%

121 .

If water content of a soil is 40%, G is 2.70 and void ratio is 1.35, the degree of saturation is_____.

A) 70%

B) 75%

C) 80%

D) 85%

Correct Answer : 80%

122 .

If the coefficients of volume change and compressibility of a soil sample are respectively 6.75 x 10⁻² and 3 x 10⁻², the void ratio of the soil sample, is

A) 1.10

A)

B) 1.15

B)

C) 1.20

C)

D) 1.25

D)

Correct Answer : 1.25

Explaination : Coeff.compressibility = Coeff.volume change/(1 + e).

(1 + e) = Coeff.volume change/Coeff.compressibility.

e = (Coeff.volume change/Coeff.compressibility) - 1.

e = ((6.75 x 10⁻²)/(3 x 10⁻²)) - 1.

e = 2.25 - 1.

e = 1.25.

123 .

The passive earth pressure of a soil, is proportional to (where φ is the angle of internal friction of the soil.)

A) tan (45° - φ)

B) tan (45° + φ)

C) tan² (45° - φ

D) tan² (45° + φ)

Correct Answer : tan² (45° + φ)

124 .

If a soil undergoes a change in shape and volume by application of external loads over it, but recovers its shape and volume immediately after removal of the load, the property of the soil is said to be____.

A) Resilience of soils

B) Elasticity of soils

C) Compressibility of soils

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : Elasticity of soils

125 .

An organic soil sample is kept in oven for its water content determination. The temperature preferred is ______

A) 60°

B) 80°

C) 105°

D) 110°

Correct Answer : 60°

Explanation : For organic soils like peat, a lower temperature of about 60° is preferable to prevent the oxidation of the organic matter.

126 .

_____ method is specially suited to a circumstance where water content is to be quickly determined for the purpose of proper field control.

A) Alcohol

B) Sand bath

C) Calcium carbide

D) Oven drying

Correct Answer : Calcium carbide

Explanation : Calcium carbide method is very quick as the result can be obtained in 5 – 10 minutes. The field kit contains the moisture tester, a small single – pan weighing balance, a bottle containing calcium carbide and a brush.

127 .

In calcium carbide method, the gas produced is______

A) oxygen

B) methane

C) acetylene

D) carbon dioxide

Correct Answer : acetylene

Explanation : The acetylene gas is produced by the reaction of moisture of soil and the calcium carbide. The gas exerts pressure on a sensitive diaphragm attached to a dial gauge which reads the water content.

128 .

The dispersing agent correction in hydrometer reading is always______

A) Equal

B) Negative

C) Positive

D) Both negative and positive

Correct Answer : Negative

Explanation : The addition of dispersing agent in water increases its water level, therefore the dispersing correction is always negative.

129 .

The hydrometer method differs from pipette method on the basis of which of the following?

A) Taking the observation

B) Principle of test

C) Method of procedure

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : Taking the observation

Explanation : In sedimentation analysis the hydrometer method differs from the pipette method in the method of taking the observation.

130 .

The meniscus correction in hydrometer reading is ________

A) Negative sometime

B) Positive sometime

C) Always negative

D) Always positive

Correct Answer : Always positive

Explanation : The actual reading to be taken at water level will be more; hence the meniscus correction will be always positive.

131 .

Which of the following is the correct hydrometer reading equation?

A) R = Cm ± Rm – Cd + CL

B) R = Rh’ + Cm ± CL – Cd

C) R = Rh + Cm ± Cd + CL

D) R = Rh’ + cm + CL – Cd

Correct Answer : R = Rh’ + Cm ± CL – Cd

Explanation : According to the derived equation of hydrometer the equation is
R = Rh’ + Cm ± CL – Cd.

132 .

The corrected hydrometer reading for meniscus is _______

A) R=Rh’ + C

B) R=Rh’ + Cm

C) R=Rh’+ Cm ± CL – Cd

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : R=Rh’ + C

Explanation : The three corrections Cm, CL, Cd can be combined into one corrections Cm and the equation can be written as R = Rh’ + Cm.

133 .

The seepage force in a soil, is_________.

A) proportional to the head loss

B) proportional to the exit graident

C) perpendicular to the equipotential lines

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

134 .

A soil has bulk density 2.30 g/cm³ and water content 15 per cent, the dry density of the sample, is____.

A) 1.0 g/cm²

B) 1.5 g/cm³

C) 2.0 g/cm³

D) 2.5 g/cm³

Correct Answer : 2.0 g/cm³

135 .

Stoke's law sates that the velocity at which a grain settles out of suspension, the other factors remaining constant, is dependent upon_________.

A) shape of grain

B) weight of grain

C) shape and size of grain

D) shape, size and weight of grain

Correct Answer : shape, size and weight of grain

136 .

The liquid limit and plastic limit exist in______.

A) clay soils

B) silty soils

C) sandy soils

D) gravel soils

Correct Answer : clay soils

137 .

The coefficient of compressibility of soil, is the ratio of______.

A) stress to strain

B) strain to stress

C) stress to settlement

D) rate of loading to that of settlement

Correct Answer : strain to stress

138 .

The consistency (or) relative consistency (Ice) is given by the formula _______

A) IC = W-WP/IP

B) IC = W-WL/IP

C) IC = WL-W/IP

D) IC = W-WL/IP

Correct Answer : IC = WL-W/IP

Explanation : The consistency or relative density is defined as ratio of liquid limit, minus the natural water content to the plasticity index of the soil IC = WL-W/IP.

139 .

The shrinkage limit is represented by the term _______

A) IC

B) IP

C) WS

D) WP

Correct Answer : WS

Explanation : Shrinkage limit is represented as WS.

140 .

The Swedish agriculturist who divided the entire range of consistency from liquid to solid states is _____

A) Atterberg

B) Laplace

C) Dupuit’s

D) Boussinesq

Correct Answer : Atterberg

Explanation : In 1911, Atterberg who was a Swedish Agriculturist divided the entire range of liquid to solid state in to four stages.

141 .

collapsible soils are usually present in areas of ______

A) Dry regions

B) Semi-arid regions and Arid regions

C) Both (A) and (B)

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : Semi-arid regions and Arid regions

Explanation : Since collapsible soil exhibit loose, weakly cemented sands they are usually present in arid and semi- arid regions.

142 .

The equation τ = C + σ tan φ is given by

A) Coulomb

B) Mohr

C) Rankine

D) Culaman

Correct Answer : Coulomb

143 .

You are given a sample of soil containing coarse grains to determine its water content, you will use_______.

A) alcohol method

B) oven-drying method

C) calcium carbide method

D) pycnometer

Correct Answer : pycnometer

144 .

The degree of saturation of the soil sample stated in Q. No, 216, is________.

A) 60%

B) 62%

C) 64%

D) 66%

Correct Answer : 64%

145 .

Number of piles required to support a column, is___.

A) 1

B) 2

C) 3

D) 4

Correct Answer : 3

146 .

The specific surface of a soil particle will be ________

A) Proportional to the compressive force

B) Directly proportional to electric force

C) Proportional to inter-molecular surface

D) Inversely proportional to electric force

Correct Answer : Directly proportional to electric force

Explanation : The electrical force responsible for inter-particle effect is proportional to the specific surface.

147 .

The harmonic diameter, can be found out by using _____

A) kozney’s method

B) Atterberg method

C) Skempton’s method

D) casagrande method

Correct Answer : kozney’s method

Explanation : The harmonic diameter DH can be found by using kozney’s method using the formula : F=6/ρs×1/Dn.

148 .

Textural classification is most suitable for _______

A) Wet soil

B) Clay soil

C) Soil with moist

D) Coarse grained soil

Correct Answer : Coarse grained soil

Explanation : Since the textural classification is based on the percentages of sand, silt, and clay size making up the soil. Such a classification is more suitable for describing coarse-grained soil.

149 .

To use textural classification chart ___________ lines must be drawn.

A) Parallel to the three sides of the triangle

B) Adjacent to the one sides of the triangle

C) Adjacent to the three sides of the triangle

D) Parallel to the only one side of the triangle

Correct Answer : Parallel to the three sides of the triangle

Explanation : To use the textural classification chart, for a given percentage of three constituents forming a soil, lines are drawn parallel to three sides of the equilateral triangle.

150 .

The maximum pressure which a soil can carry without shear failure, is called______.

A) net safe bearing capacity

B) ultimate bearing capacity

C) safe bearing capacity

D) net ultimate bearing capacity

Correct Answer : safe bearing capacity

151 .

For general engineering purposes, soils are classified by________.

A) unified soil classification system

B) textural classification system

C) particle size classification system

D) High Way Research Board (HRB), classification system

Correct Answer : unified soil classification system

152 .

If there is no impervious boundary at the bottom of a hydraulic structure, stream lines tend to follow :

A) a parabola

B) a semi-circle

C) a straight line

D) a semi-ellipse

Correct Answer : a semi-ellipse

153 .

The change of moisture content of soils, changes the________.

A) value of the angle of repose

B) cohesive strength of soil

C) amount of compaction required

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

154 .

A failure wedge develops if a retaining wall_________.

A) sinks downwards

B) moves away from the backfill

C) moves towards the backfill

D) stresses equally by vertical and horizontal forces

Correct Answer : moves away from the backfill

155 .

A soil is considered as coarse grained, if it retains more than ___________ in a sieve.

A) 80% of the soil

B) 70% of the soil

C) 50% of the soil

D) 20% of the soil

Correct Answer : 50% of the soil

Explanation : If more than 50 % of the soil is retained on a NO.200 US sieve (0.075), it is designated as coarse grained soil.

156 .

Coarse grained soils, containing fines between 5-12%, are designated by ___________ Symbol.

A) CL-ML

B) GW-GM and SP-SM

C) Both (A) and (B)

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : GW-GM and SP-SM

Explanation : If the percentage of fines lies between 5 to 12 %, coarse grained soils are designated by dual symbols GW-GM or SP-SM.

157 .

Fine grained soil are sub divided in to _____

A) Silt and clay

B) Sand and clay

C) Gravel and peat

D) Organic and silt

Correct Answer : Silt and clay

158 .

For slopes of limited extent the surface of slippage, is usually along________.

A) a circular arc

B) a straight line

C) a parabolic arc

D) an elliptical arc

Correct Answer : a circular arc

159 .

For a base failure of a slope, depth factor :

A) Df = 1

A)

B) Df < 1

B)

C) Df > 1

C)

D) None of the above

D)

Correct Answer : Df > 1

160 .

A critical hydraulic gradient may occur when_________.

A) flow is in upward direction

B) effective pressure is zero

C) seepage pressure is in upward direction

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

161 .

The minimum depth of building foundations on__________.

A) rocky soils is 5 cm to 50 cm

B) sandy soils is 80 cm to 100 cm

C) clay soils is 90 cm to 160 cm

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

162 .

The ratio of the undrained strength in the undrained state to the undrained strength, at the same water content, in the remoulded state, is called the sensivity of the clay. Its value for quick clays is_______.

A) 20

B) 16

C) 12

D) 8

Correct Answer : 20

163 .

The A-line, in unified classification system table has the equation of ______

A) IP=WL-20

B) IP=20-WL

C) IP=0.73(WL-20)

D) IP=0.73(20-wL)

Correct Answer : IP=0.73(WL-20)

Explanation : The A-line, dividing the inorganic clay from silt and organic soil has the equation: IP=0.73(WL-20).

164 .

According to IS classification, the symbol GC means ______

A) Sand gravel

B) Clayey gravel

C) Silt gravel

D) Well graded gravel

Correct Answer : Clayey gravel

Explanation : As per Indian standards of group symbols and typical names, G-refers to gravel and C-refers to clay.

165 .

What are the features required, for classifying a soil component as boulder?

A) Bulky hard

B) Round to angular shape

C) Diameter more than 30cm

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

Explanation : For a soil component to be a boulder, size range must be of average diameter more than 30cm and shape of round to angular and bulky hard.

166 .

A structure is erected on an impervious clay whose thickness is 12 m. Drainage is possible both at upper and lower surfaces. Coefficient of consolidation is 0.015 cm2 per minute. For attaining 50% consolidation with a time factor 0.20, the number of days required______.

A) 3123

B) 3233

C) 3313

D) 33331

Correct Answer : 33331

167 .

The intensity of active earth pressure at a depth of 10 metres in dry cohesionless sand with an angle of internal friction of 30° and with a weight of 1.8 t/m³, is____.

A) 6 t/m²

B) 7 t/m²

C) 8 t/m²

D) 9 t/m²

Correct Answer : 6 t/m²

168 .

On wetting, cohesive soils,________.

A) loose elasticity

B) loose permeability

C) decrease their shear strength

D) gain shear strength

Correct Answer : decrease their shear strength

169 .

'Talus' is the soil transported by________.

A) wind

B) water

C) glacier

D) gravitational force

Correct Answer : gravitational force

170 .

If the unit weight of sand particles is 2.696 g/cc. and porosity in loose state is 44%, the critical hydraulic gradient for quick sand condition, is_____.

A) 0.90

B) 0.95

C) 0.94

D) 0.93

Correct Answer : 0.95

171 .

The void ratio of a soil sample decreases from 1.50 to 1.25 when the pressure is increased from 25 tonnes/m2 to 50 tonnes/m², the coefficient of compressibility is______.

A) 0.01

B) 0.02

C) 0.05

D) 0.001

Correct Answer : 0.01

172 .

Negative skin friction on piles________.

A) is caused in soft clays

B) decreases the pile capacity

C) is caused due to relative settlement of the soil

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

173 .

The ultimate bearing capacity of a soil, is______.

A) load at which soil fails

B) safe load on the bearing area

C) total load on the bearing area

D) load at which soil consolidates

Correct Answer : load at which soil fails

174 .

A moist soil sample of volume 60 cc. weighs 108 g and its dried weight is 86.4 g. If its absolute density is 2.52, the degree of saturation is________.

A) 74%

B) 54%

C) 84%

D) 64%

Correct Answer : 84%

175 .

Through a point in a loaded soil, the principal stress is maximum on_____.

A) minor principal plane

B) major principal plane

C) intermediate principal plane

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : major principal plane

176 .

Maximum size of clay particles, is :

A) 0.08 mm

B) 0.06 mm

C) 0.04 mm

D) 0.002 mm

Correct Answer : 0.002 mm

177 .

The water content of soil deposit in the in-situ condition is determinate by ______ method.

A) radiation

B) pycnometer

C) oven – dry

D) calcium carbide

Correct Answer : radiation

Explanation : The radiation method consists of 2 steel casings. A device containing some radio–active isotope is lowered in one caning and a detector in another. The neutrons emitted by the device are detected by the detector and the loss of energy of neutrons is equated to the water content.

178 .

The visibility of the soil suspension in hydrometer method is _______

A) Opaque

B) Transparent

C) Translucent

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : Opaque

Explanation : Since the density of the soil suspension is high, the visibility will be opaque.

179 .

The volume of suspension taken in the hydrometer test is ______

A) 100

B) 120

C) 500

D) 1000

Correct Answer : 1000

Explanation : The quantity of dry soil and dispersing agent is taken as double of pipette which is 500 ml.

180 .

Initially, the volume of hydrometer is taken in terms of _______

A) Liters

B) Millimeters

C) Grams

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : Grams

Explanation : since the soil is weighed in terms of mass, the volume is taken in terms of grams.

181 .

If the failure of a finite slope occurs through the toe, it is known as____.

A) base failure

B) toe failure

C) face failure

D) slope failure

Correct Answer : toe failure

182 .

The water content of soil is defined as the ratio of_____.

A) volume of water to volume of given soil

B) volume of water to volume of voids in soil

C) weight of water to weight of air in voids

D) weight of water to weight of solids of given mass of soil

Correct Answer : weight of water to weight of solids of given mass of soil

183 .

Accurate determination of water content, is made by________.

A) oven-drying method

B) alcohol method

C) sand bath method

D) calcium carbide method

Correct Answer : oven-drying method

184 .

Which of the following is not useful for engineer purpose, as proposed by Atterberg?

A) Liquid limit

B) Plastic limit

C) Solid limit

D) Shrinkage limit

Correct Answer : Solid limit

Explanation : Liquid limit, plastic limit, shrinkage limit are useful for engineering purpose.

185 .

According to Goldschmidt theory, the plasticity in soil is due to ________

A) Smooth surface

B) Electro-magnetic charges

C) Both (A) and (B)

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : Electro-magnetic charges

186 .

Clay does not become plastic, when mixed with ______

A) Oil

B) Kerosene

C) Soap solution

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : Kerosene

Explanation : According to Goldschmidt theory, the clay does not become plastic when mixed with liquids of non-polarizing agents like kerosene.

187 .

The loose bulky grains in collapsible soil are held together by______

A) Capillary stress

B) Compressive stress

C) Inter-molecular force between the soil

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : Capillary stress

Explanation : As the common Feature exhibited by collapsible soil is capillary stress, the loose bulky grains in the soil are held together by it.

188 .

At a given overburden pressure (Po) for a collapsible soil, its collapsible potential depends on _________

A) Pressure

B) Moisture content

C) Temperature coefficient

D) Degree of saturation

Correct Answer : Degree of saturation

Explanation : Collapsible potential varies with degree of saturation, at an overburden pressure of Po.

189 .

The soil moisture driven off by heat, is called_____.

A) free water

B) gravity water

C) hydroscopic water

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : hydroscopic water

190 .

If the specific gravity of a soil particle of 0.05 cm diameter is 2.67, its terminal velocity while settling in distilled water of viscosity, 0.01 poise, is_____.

A) 0.2200 cm/sec

B) 0.2250 cm/sec

C) 0.2275 cm/sec

D) 0.2350 cm/sec

Correct Answer : 0.2275 cm/sec

191 .

The compression index of a soil_______.

A) is not related with plastic limit

B) increases with an increase in the liquid limit

C) decreases with an increase in the liquid limit

D) decreases with an increase in the plastic limit

Correct Answer : increases with an increase in the liquid limit

192 .

Specific surface of a soil is related with _______

A) Physical properties of the soil

B) Chemical properties of the soil

C) General characteristic of the soil

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : Physical properties of the soil

Explanation : As specific surface is associated with surface characteristics of a particle, therefore it is related with physical properties.

193 .

Microscopic soil particles have a very ______

A) Larger diameter

B) A larger volume

C) Small specific surface

D) Larger specific surface

Correct Answer : Larger specific surface

Explanation : As the specific surface increases as the size of the grain decreases. Therefore Microscopic particles have a large specific surface.

194 .

Specific surface(SS) can also expressed as ______

A) Moisture content of the soil

B) Physical properties of the soil

C) Surface area of the particle per unit volume

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : Surface area of the particle per unit volume

Explanation : From the expression, specific surface = surface area of particle/volume of the particle, it can be seen that specific surface is the surface area of a particle.

195 .

The type of triangle, used in textural classification of soil is _______

A) Right angled triangle

B) Equilateral triangle

C) Perpendicular triangle

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : Equilateral triangle

Explanation : A triangle, having equal length of sides (i.e. Equilateral triangle) is used in textural classification chart.

196 .

Public road administration (PRA) system is based on ________

A) Particle size distribution

B) Particle-size composition and Plasticity characteristics

C) Both (A) and (B)

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : Particle-size composition and Plasticity characteristics

Explanation : HRB classification system, also known as public road administration (PRA) is based on both the particle-size composition and plasticity characteristics.

197 .

Highway research board (HRB) classification system is also known as____

A) Indian classification system

B) M.I.T. classification system

C) International classification system

D) Public road administration (PRA) system

Correct Answer : Public road administration (PRA) system

Explanation : Highway research board classification system is also known as public road administration (PRA) system.

198 .

For determining the ultimate bearing capacity of soil, the recommended size of a square bearing plate to be used in load plate test should be 30 to 75 cm square with a minimum thickness of________.

A) 5 mm

B) 15 mm

C) 25 mm

D) 45 mm

Correct Answer : 25 mm

199 .

The water content in a soil sample when it continues to loose weight without loosing the volume, is called_______.

A) Shrinkage limit

B) liquid limit

C) Plastic limit

D) semi-solid limit

Correct Answer : Shrinkage limit

200 .

When a cohesionless soil attains quick condition, it looses________.

A) shear strength

B) bearing capacity

C) Both (A) and (B)

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : Both (A) and (B)

201 .

The total weight of a pycnometer with water and oven dried soil 20 (g) is 1600 g. The pycnometer filled with water alone weighs 1500 g. The specific gravity of the soil, is________.

A) 1.0

B) 1.5

C) 2.0

D) 2.5

Correct Answer : 2.0

202 .

The zero atmospheric pressure is at______.

A) mean sea level

B) water table

C) phreatic surface

D) Both (B) and (C)

Correct Answer : Both (B) and (C)

203 .

A soil mass coated with a thin layer of paraffin weighs 460 g. When immersed, it displaces 299 cc of water. The weight of paraffin is 10 g. If specific gravity of solids is 2.5 and that of paraffin 0.9, the void ratio of soil, is______.

A) 0.55

B) 0.60

C) 0.65

D) 0.70

Correct Answer : 0.60

204 .

In a fow net_______.

A) flow lines and equipotential lines cross each other at right angles

B) fields are rectangles whose length is twice the breadth

C) for homogeneous soil, the curves are smooth and circular.

D) smaller the dimensions of the field, smaller will be the hydraulic gradient and velocity of flow through it

Correct Answer : flow lines and equipotential lines cross each other at right angles

205 .

The ratio of the volume of water present in a given soil mass to the total volume of its voids, is known________.

A) porosity

B) void ratio

C) percentage voids

D) degree of saturation

Correct Answer : degree of saturation

206 .

Fine grained soil are subdivided based on ________

A) Group Index

B) Liquid limit and Plasticity index

C) Both (A) and (B)

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : Liquid limit and Plasticity index

Explanation : Based on the liquid limit and plasticity index, fine grained soil is subdivided.

207 .

Coarse grained soil is sub-divided in to __________

A) Sand and silt

B) Silt and clay

C) Gravel and sand

D) Gravel and clay

Correct Answer : Gravel and sand

Explanation : Based on the soil size, coarse grained soil is divided in to gravel and sand.

208 .

In Casagrande's plasticity chart, the numbers in the chart denotes ________

A) Grade of the soil

B) Division of the group

C) Relative suitability

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : Relative suitability

Explanation : In Casagrande’s plasticity chart, the numbers denote relative suitability with No.1 as the best and No.10 as the worst.

209 .

A triaxial shear test is prefered to direct shear test, because_________.

A) it can be performed under all three driange conditions with complete control

B) stress distribution on the failure plane, is non uniform

C) precise measurement of pore pressure and change in volume during test, is not posible

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : it can be performed under all three driange conditions with complete control

210 .

Chemical weathering of soil is caused due to______.

A) hydration

B) oxidation

C) carbonation

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

211 .

Hydrometer readings are corrected for :

A) meniscus correction

B) dispersing agent correction

C) meniscus and dispersing agent corrections

D) temperature, meniscus and dispersing agent corrections

Correct Answer : temperature, meniscus and dispersing agent corrections

212 .

The capillary rise of water________.

A) is less in wet soil than in dry soil

B) depends upon the force responsible

C) increases as the size of the soil particles increases

D) decreases as the size of the soil particles decreases

Correct Answer : depends upon the force responsible

213 .

Coulomb's wedge theory assumes that_________.

A) back fill is dry, cohesionless, homogeneous and isotropic

B) slip surface is the plane which passes through the heel of the wall

C) position and direction of the resultant earth pressure, are known

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

Explanation : * back fill is dry, cohesionless, homogeneous and isotropic
* slip surface is the plane which passes through the heel of the wall
* position and direction of the resultant earth pressure, are known
* sliding wedge itself acts as a rigid body and the value of earth pressure is obtained by considering the limiting equilibrium of the wedge

214 .

If dry density, water density and specific gravity of solids of a given soil sample are 1.6 g/cc, 1.84 g/cc and 2.56 respectively, the porosity of the soil sample, is_______.

A) 0.375

B) 0.370

C) 0.380

D) 0.390

Correct Answer : 0.375

215 .

If the back fill is having a uniform surcharge of intensity q per unit area, the lateral pressure will be_______.

A) q times the lateral pressure within the surface

B) 1/q times the lateral pressure within the surface

C) equal to a fill of height Z equal to q/r, where r is the density of the backfill

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : equal to a fill of height Z equal to q/r, where r is the density of the backfill

216 .

Pick up the correct statement from the following :

A) Isotropic consolidation of clay can be obtained in the triaxial apparatus under equal all-round pressure.

B) If the present effective stress in the past was more than present effective stress, it is called over-consolidated clay

C) If the present effective stress is the maximum to which the clay has ever been subjected, it is called normally consolidated clay

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

217 .

The hydrometer are generally calibrated at ________

A) 35°c

B) 27°c

C) -35°c

D) -27°c

Correct Answer : 27°c

Explanation : The hydrometer are generally calibrated at 27°c if the temperature is more than 27°c, temperature correction will be taken negative. If less than 27°c then the temperature correction will be positive.

218 .

According to Coulomb's wedge theory, the active earth pressure slides the wedge__________.

A) down and outwards on a slip surface

B) up and inwards on a slip surface

C) horizontal upward and parallel to base

D) horizontal inward and parallel to base

Correct Answer : down and outwards on a slip surface

219 .

The effective size of particles of soil is denoted by_________.

A) D₁₀

B) D₂₀

C) D₃₀

D) D₆₀

Correct Answer : D₁₀

220 .

Degree of saturation of a natural soil deposit having water content 15%, specific gravity 2.50 and void ratio 0.5, is_______.

A) 50%

B) 60%

C) 75%

D) 80%

Correct Answer : 75%

221 .

Pick up the clay soil group which does not swell when wet from the following :

A) Illite group

B) Kaolinite group

C) Vermiculite group

D) Montrorillonite group

Correct Answer : Illite group

222 .

Factor of safety against sliding of a slope, is the ratio of_________.

A) shear strength to shear stress along the surface

B) actual cohesion to that required to maintain stability of slope

C) Both (A) and (B)

D) Neither (A) nor (B)

Correct Answer : Both (A) and (B)

223 .

The ratio of the volume of voids to the volume of soil solids in a given soil mass, is known_______.

A) porosity

B) void ratio

C) water content

D) specific gravity

Correct Answer : void ratio

224 .

A partially saturated sample of soil has a unit weight of 2.0 g/cm³ and specific gravity of soil particles is 2.6. If the moisture content in the soil is 20%, the degree of saturation is____.

A) 20%

B) 41%

C) 77%

D) 92%

Correct Answer : 92%

225 .

In consistency of soil, the limits are expressed in terms of________

A) Area

B) Volume

C) Per cent water content

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : Per cent water content

226 .

Which of the following is not considered as one of the state, as divided by Atterberg?

A) Gaseous state

B) Solid state

C) Liquid state

D) Semi-solid state

Correct Answer : Gaseous state

227 .

A clay specimen has an unconfined compressive strength of 240 Kn/m² in a distributed state. On remolding, the unconfined compressive strength is 54 Kn/m². What will be the sensitivity of clay?

A) 7.24

B) 4.44

C) 3.85

D) 2.04

Correct Answer : 4.44

Explanation : Sensitivity,
St = QU(undistributed)/QU(distributed)
=240/54
=4.44.

228 .

The structural collapse for a clay soil usually occurs at ________

A) Last

B) Does not occur

C) First saturation

D) At an intermediate

Correct Answer : First saturation

Explanation : As there is a sudden compression of the soil under pressure, the structural collapse occurs upon first saturation.

229 .

For a homogeneous earth dam 50 m high having 2 m free broad, a flow net was constructed and the results were : Number of potential drops = 2.4 Number of flow channels = 0.4. If coefficiency of permeability of the dam mateiral is 3 x 10⁻³ cm³/sec, the discharge per metre length of dam, is

A) 6 x 10⁻⁵ m³/sec

A)

B) 12 x 10⁻⁵ m³/sec

B)

C) 24 x 10⁻³ m³/sec

C)

D) 24 x 10⁻⁵ m³/sec

D)

Correct Answer : 24 x 10⁻⁵ m³/sec

230 .

For shear strength, triaxial shear test is suitable because______.

A) stress distribution on the failure plane, is uniform

B) it can be performed under all three drainage conditions

C) precise measurement of the pore pressure and volume change during the test is possible

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

Explanation : * stress distribution on the failure plane, is uniform
* it can be performed under all three drainage conditions
* precise measurement of the pore pressure and volume change during the test is possible
* state of stress within the specimen during any stage of the test as well as at failure, is completely determined

231 .

Water content of a soil sample is the difference of the weight of the given sample at the given temperature and the weight determined after drying it for 24 hours at temperature ranging from_____.

A) 105° to 110°C

B) 103° to 105°C

C) 95° to 100°C

D) 90° to 95°C

Correct Answer : 105° to 110°C

232 .

The ratio of settlement at any time 't' to the final settlement, is known as______.

A) consolidation index

B) degree of consolidation

C) co-efficient of consolidation

D) consolidation of undisturbed soil

Correct Answer : degree of consolidation

233 .

The Westergaard analysis is used for________.

A) sandy soils

B) clayey soils

C) stratified soils

D) cohesive soils

Correct Answer : stratified soils

234 .

260 g of wet soil was taken in a pycnometer jar of weight 400 g in order to find the moisture content in the soil, with specific gravity of soil particles 2.75. The weight of soil and remaining water filled in pycnometer without air bubbles was 1415 g and the weight of pycnometer filled with water alone was 1275 g. The moisture content in the soil is____.

A) 24.2%

A)

B) 18.2%

B)

C) 53.8%

C)

D) None of the above

D)

Correct Answer : 18.2%

235 .

Permeability of the soil depends on _________

A) Density of the soil

B) Moisture present in soil

C) Size of the soil particle

D) Specific surface of the soil particle

Correct Answer : Specific surface of the soil particle

Explanation : Permeability of soil greatly depends on the specific surface of the soil because of the viscous effects associated with surface characteristics of the grains.

236 .

Chemical activity of a clay mineral depends on _______

A) Surface area

B) Unit mass

C) Compactness

D) Electric charge

Correct Answer : Surface area

Explanation : The chemical activity of the clay mineral depends upon the surface area, because of the electrical charge of clay minerals is high per unit mass.

237 .

Based on HRB classification system, the soil are divided in to _______

A) 6 primary groups

B) 7 primary groups

C) 2 primary groups

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : 7 primary groups

Explanation : Based on HRB system, the soil is divided into 7 primary groups, designated as A-1, A-2…A-7.

238 .

The performance of the soil, when used for pavement construction is found out by using ________

A) Quality test

B) Material test

C) Group index

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : Group index

Explanation : As group index is a mean of rating the value of soil as a sub-grade material. It can be used for finding the performance and quality of the soil.

239 .

Group index is defined by which of the equation?

A) GI=0.2a+0.5ac+0.001bd

B) GI=0.2b+0.005ac+0.01bd

C) GI=0.2a+0.005ac+0.001bd

D) GI=0.2a+0.005bd+0.001ac

Correct Answer : GI=0.2a+0.005ac+0.001bd

Explanation : Group index (GI) is given by the following equation :

GI = 0.2a+0.005ac+0.01bd.

240 .

Stoke's law does not hold good if the size of particle is smaller than________.

A) 0.2 mm

B) 0.02 mm

C) 0.002 mm

D) 0.0002 mm

Correct Answer : 0.0002 mm

241 .

In a purely cohesive soil, the critical centre lies at the intersection of__________.

A) Directional angles

B) perpendicular bisector of slope and the locus of the centre

C) perpendicular drawn at l/3rd slope from toe and the locus of the centre

D) perpendicular drawn at 2/3rd slope from toe and the locus of the centre

Correct Answer : directional angles

242 .

In non-cohesive soil in passive state of plastic equilibrium_______.

A) major principal stress is vertical

B) minor principal stress is vertical

C) major principal stress is horizontal

D) minor and major principal stresses are equally inclined to the horizontal

Correct Answer : minor principal stress is vertical

243 .

In active state of plastic equilibrium in a non cohesive soil with horizontal ground surface

A) major principal stress is vertical

B) minor principal stress is vertical

C) major principal stress is horizontal

D) minor and major principal stresses are equally inclined to horizontal

Correct Answer : major principal stress is vertical

244 .

The specific gravity of quartz, is_______.

A) 2.72

B) 2.85

C) 2.65

D) 2.90

Correct Answer : 2.65

245 .

Minimum size of the particles of silt soil, is_______.

A) 0.04 mm

B) 0.06 mm

C) 0.08 mm

D) 0.002 mm

Correct Answer : 0.002 mm

246 .

The maximum value of effective stress in the past divided by the present value, is defined as over consolidation ratio (OCR). The O.C.R. of an over consolidated clay is______

A) 1

B) less than 1

C) more than 1

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : more than 1

247 .

Under-reamed piles are generally________.

A) driven piles

B) bored piles

C) precast piles

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : bored piles

248 .

The lateral earth pressure on a retaining wall__________.

A) proportional to the internal friction of the soil

B) proportional to the depth of the soil

C) is equal to mass of the soil retained

D) proportional to the square of the depth of the soil

Correct Answer : proportional to the internal friction of the soil

249 .

The internal molecular attraction of a soil, the cohesion________.

A) is more in well compacted clays

B) depends upon the external applied load

C) increases as the moisture content decreases

D) decreases as the moisture content increases

Correct Answer : is more in well compacted clays

250 .

When drainage is permitted under initially applied normal stress only and full primarily consolidation is allowed to take place, the test is known as_________.

A) quick test

B) drained test

C) Both (A) and (B)

D) consolidated undrained test

Correct Answer : consolidated undrained test

251 .

The minimum water content at which the soil retains its liquid state and also possesses a small shearing strength against flowing, is known_______.

A) plastic limit

B) shrinkage limit

C) liquid limit

D) permeability limit

Correct Answer : liquid limit

252 .

Pick up the in-correct statement from the following: The soils which contain montmorillonite minerals______.

A) swell more when wet

B) shrink more when dry

C) possess high plasticity

D) possess high coefficient of internal coefficient

Correct Answer : possess high coefficient of internal coefficient

253 .

For determing the specific gravity of soil solids, using a pycnometer of 500 cc., the following data is available : Weight of dry empty pycnometer = 125 g Weight of dried soil and pycnometer = 500 g Weight of dried soil and distilled = 850 g water filled in pycnometer up to top The specific gravity of soil soilds, is____.

A) 2.0

B) 2.25

C) 2.50

D) 2.75

Correct Answer : 2.50

254 .

The reduction in volume of soil due to squeezing out of water from the voids, is termed______.

A) primary compression

B) primary time effect

C) primary consolidation

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

255 .

'Drift' is the material picked up, mixed, disintegrated, transported and redeposited by_______.

A) wind

B) glaciated water

C) gravitational force

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : glaciated water

256 .

The consistency index of a soil is defined as the ratio of_______.

A) liquid limit minus the natural water content to the plasticity index of the soil

B) liquid limit plus the natural water content to the plasticity index of the soil

C) natural water content of a soil minus plastic limit to the plasticity index of the soil

D) natural water content of a soil plus its plastic limit to the plasticity index of the soil

Correct Answer : liquid limit minus the natural water content to the plasticity index of the soil

257 .

The shear strength in plastic undrained clay, is due to______.

A) cohesion

B) internal friction

C) inter-granular friction

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : cohesion

258 .

A clay subjected to pressure in excess to its present over-burden, is said to be

A) pre-compressed

B) pre-consolidated

C) over-consolidated

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

259 .

The total active earth pressure due to dry back fill with no surcharge, acts at H/3 above the base of the wall and is directly proportional to

A) H

B) H²

C) H³

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : H²

260 .

A saturated soil sample has water content of 40% and specific gravity of soil particles 2.7. The void ratio of the soil, is________.

A) 0.4

B) 0.52

C) 1.08

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : 1.08

261 .

For testing a saturated clay for shear strength, the test recommended, is______.

A) direct shear test

B) triaxial compression test

C) unconfined compression test

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : unconfined compression test

262 .

An unsaturated 100 cm³ sample of soil weighs 190 g. If its dried weight is 160 g, water content of the soil, is____.

A) 0.188

B) 0.288

C) 0.388

D) 0.488

Correct Answer : 0.188

263 .

The specific gravity of Calcite is______.

A) 2.93

B) 2.90

C) 2.85

D) 2.72

Correct Answer : 2.72

264 .

A plane inclined at an angle φ to the horizontal at which the soil is expected to stay in the absence of any lateral support, is known as_____.

A) the φ line

B) repose line

C) natural slope line

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

265 .

soil mass is said to be in plastic equilibrium if______.

A) it starts flowing

B) it is on the verge of failure

C) it is in plastic stage

D) it is stressed to maximum

Correct Answer : it is on the verge of failure

266 .

A soil sample of mass specific gravity 1.92, has a moisture content 30%. If the specific gravity of solids is 2.75, the void ratio, is_____.

A) 0.858

B) 0.860

C) 0.862

D) 0.864

Correct Answer : 0.862

267 .

In a liquid limit test, the moisture content at 10 blows was 70% and that at 100 blows was 20%. The liquid limit of the soil, is________.

A) 65%

B) 50%

C) 35%

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : 65%

268 .

A pile is being driven with a drop hammer weighing 1800 kg and having a free fall of 1.00 m. If the penetration with last blow is 5 mm, the load carrying capacity of the pile, -according to the Engineering News formula, is_____.

A) 10 tonnes

B) 20 tonnes

C) 50 tonnes

D) 100 tonnes

Correct Answer : 10 tonnes

269 .

The maximum shear stress occurs on the filament which makes an angle with the horizontal plane equal to_______.

A) 30°

B) 45°

C) 60°

D) 90°

Correct Answer : 45°

270 .

The active earth pressure of a soil is proportional to (where φ is the angle of friction of the soil)______.

A) tan (45° + φ)

B) tan (45° - φ)

C) tan² (45° + φ/2)

D) tan² (45° - φ/2)

Correct Answer : tan² (45° - φ/2)

271 .

Buoyant unit weight equals the saturated density______.

A) minus unit weight of water

B) plus unit weight of water

C) divided by unit weight of water

D) multiplied by unit weight of water

Correct Answer : minus unit weight of water

272 .

A partially saturated soil is classified as_____.

A) one phase soil

B) two phase soil

C) three phase soil

D) four phase soil

Correct Answer : three phase soil

273 .

The shear strength of a soil______.

A) is proportional to the cohesion of the soil

B) is generally known as the strength of the soil

C) increases with an increase in the normal stress

D) All of the above

Correct Answer : All of the above

Explanation : * is proportional to the cohesion of the soil
* is generally known as the strength of the soil
* increases with an increase in the normal stress
* is proportional to the tangent of the angle of internal friction

274 .

The property of a soil which permits water to percolate through it, is called______

A) capillarity

B) permeability

C) moisture content

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : permeability

275 .

A pycnometer is used to determine_____.

A) water content

B) dry density

C) voids ratio

D) density index

Correct Answer : water content

276 .

The ratio of the weight of water to the weight of solids in a given mass of soil, is known_______.

A) porosity

B) water content

C) void ratio

D) specific gravity

Correct Answer : water content

277 .

During seepage through a soil, direction of seepage is always_______.

A) perpendicular to stream lines

B) parallel to equipotential lines

C) perpendicular to equipotential lines

D) None of the above

Correct Answer : perpendicular to equipotential lines

278 .

The property of a soil which allows it to be deformed rapidly without rupture, elastic rebound and also a volume change, is known______.

A) ductility

B) porosity

C) permeability

D) plasticity

Correct Answer : plasticity

Civil Engineering : Soil Mechanics MCQs with Answers