Question

Consider the following statements:
1. Obtaining reliable properties of soil is very important in geotechnical engineering. Chunk samples obtained from the field are the best for this purpose.
2. Chunk samples may easily be obtained at all depths below ground level and for all types of soils.
3. Undisturbed soil samples are enclosed in rugged containers. As such, they do not get disturbed easily during transportation and handling.
Which of these statements is/are correct?

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

Answer 1

The correct option is C 2 and 3

Chunk samples fall in the category of undisturbed samples. They are obtained from bottom of the test pits for all type of soils. Including those containing pebbles and cobbles. Thus reliable properties of soil can be obtained by testing chunk samples.
However, the depth of test pit is limited. Chunk samples can be obtained from exposed soil in a shaft or tunnel also. Thus they can be obtained from all the depths.
Chunk samples are not the best for obiaining the engineering properties. Piston sampler and compressed air sampler cause least disturbance to sensitive soils.
Finally special care is required in the handling, transportation, and storage of samples prior to testing.
So rugged containers are used to enclose samples. Thus 2 and 3 are correct and 1 is partially correct only.