Question

Consider the following statements:
1. Cohesionless soils experience relatively quicker compression under load.
2. Clays compacted dry-of-optimum compress more rapidly.
3. Clays compacted wet-of-optimum consolidate more under low stress range.
Which of these statements are correct?

• A. 1, 2 and 3
• B. 1 and 2 only
• C. 1 and 3 only
• D. 2 and 3 only

Answer 1

The correct option is A 1, 2 and 3

• In cohesionless soils, compression is relatively quicker because settlement is mainly immediate.
• Due to large permeability, clays are compacted more rapidly this leading to quicker consolidation process on dry side.
• Clays compacted wet of optimum is more compressible than the flocculated soil on dry side of optimum, at relatively low stress levels.

This is because the strong interparticle bonds in a flocculated structure do no allow the particles to be displaced.