2

CHAPTER 2
INDEX AND CLASSIFICATION PROPERTIES OF SOILS

2-1. From memory, draw a phase diagram (like Fig. 2.2, but dont look first!). The phases have a Volume side and Mass side. Label all the parts. SOLUTION: Refer to Figure 2.2.
2-2. From memory, write out the definitions for water content, void ratio, dry density, wet or moist density, and saturated density. SOLUTION: Refer to Section 2.2.
2-3. Assuming a value of s = 2.7 Mg/m3, take the range of saturated density in Table 2.1 for the six soil types and calculate/estimate the range in void ratios that one might expect for these soils.
SOLUTION: Create a spreadsheet using input values from Table 2.1 and Eq. 2.18.
(Given) (see Eq. 2.18)
' - min
(Mg/m3)
' - max
(Mg/m3)
emax 0.89 3.25 0.55 0.89
emin 0.21 0.55 0.21 0.42 16.00 1.13
0.9 0.4 1.1 0.9 0.0 0.3
1.4 1.1 1.4 1.2 0.1 0.8
4.67
2011 Pearson Education, Inc., Upper Saddle River, NJ. All rights reserved. This publication is protected by Copyright and written permission should be obtained from the publisher prior to any prohibited reproduction, storage in a retrieval system, or transmission in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or likewise. For information regarding permission(s), write to: Rights and Permissions Department, Pearson Education, Inc., Upper Saddle River, NJ 07458.
Index and Classification Properties of Soils
Chapter 2
2-4. Prepare a spreadsheet plot of dry density in Mg/m3 as the ordinate versus water content in percent as the abscissa. Assume s = 2.65 Mg/m3 and vary the degree of saturation, S, from 100% to 40% in 10% increments. A maximum of 50% water content should be adequate. SOLUTION: Solve Eq. 2.12 and Eq. 2.15 for d = f(s, w, S, Gs), or use Eq. 5.1.
dry = w S w+ w S s
S= w
(%)
100 dry
(Mg/m3)
90 dry
(Mg/m3)
80 dry
(Mg/m3)
70 dry
(Mg/m3)
60 dry
(Mg/m3)
50 dry
(Mg/m3)
40 dry
(Mg/m3)
30 dry
(Mg/m3)
20 dry
(Mg/m3)
10 dry
(Mg/m3)
0.0 5.0 10.0 15.0 20.0 25.0 30.0 35.0 40.0 45.0 50.0
2.65 2.34 2.09 1.90 1.73 1.59 1.48 1.37 1.29 1.21 1.14
2.65 2.31 2.05 1.84 1.67 1.53 1.41 1.31 1.22 1.14 1.07
2.65 2.27 1.99 1.77 1.59 1.45 1.33 1.23 1.14 1.06 1.00
2.65 2.23 1.92 1.69 1.51 1.36 1.24 1.14 1.05 0.98 0.92
2.65 2.17 1.84 1.59 1.41 1.26 1.14 1.04 0.96 0.89 0.83
2.65 2.09 1.73 1.48 1.29 1.14 1.02 0.93 0.85 0.78 0.73
2.65 1.99 1.59 1.33 1.14 1.00 0.89 0.80 0.73 0.67 0.61
2.65 1.84 1.41 1.14 0.96 0.83 0.73 0.65 0.58 0.53 0.49
2.65 1.59 1.14 0.89 0.73 0.61 0.53 0.47 0.42 0.38 0.35
2.65 1.14 0.73 0.53 0.42 0.35 0.30 0.26 0.23 0.21 0.19
Problem 2-4 3.00 2.50 2.00 1.50 1.00 0.50 0.00 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 w (%) 35 40 45
dry (Mg/m3)
S=100% S=90% S=80% S=70% S=60% S=50% S=40% S=30% S=20% S=10%
50
55
Chapter 2
2-5a Prepare a graph like that in Problem 2.4, only use dry density units of kN/m3 and pounds per cubic feet. SOLUTION: From Eq. 2.12 and Eq. 2.15: dry =
w S w+ w S s
60 dry
(kN/m3)
S= w
(%)
100 dry
(kN/m3)
90 dry
(kN/m3)
80 dry
(kN/m3)
70 dry
(kN/m3)
50 dry
(kN/m3)
40 dry
(kN/m3)
30 dry
(kN/m3)
20 dry
(kN/m3)
10 dry
(kN/m3)
0.0 5.0 10.0 15.0 20.0 25.0 30.0 35.0 40.0 45.0 50.0
26.00 22.95 20.55 18.60 16.99 15.64 14.48 13.49 12.62 11.86 11.18
26.00 22.66 20.08 18.03 16.36 14.97 13.80 12.80 11.94 11.18 10.52
26.00 22.30 19.53 17.37 15.64 14.22 13.04 12.04 11.18 10.44 9.79
26.00 21.86 18.86 16.58 14.79 13.36 12.17 11.18 10.34 9.62 8.99
26.00 21.29 18.03 15.64 13.80 12.35 11.18 10.21 9.40 8.70 8.10
26.00 20.55 16.99 14.48 12.62 11.18 10.04 9.11 8.33 7.68 7.12
26.00 19.53 15.64 13.04 11.18 9.79 8.70 7.83 7.12 6.53 6.03
26.00 18.03 13.80 11.18 9.40 8.10 7.12 6.35 5.73 5.23 4.80
26.00 15.64 11.18 8.70 7.12 6.03 5.23 4.61 4.13 3.73 3.41
26.00 11.18 7.12 5.23 4.13 3.41 2.90 2.53 2.24 2.01 1.82
Problem 2-5a
30.00
S=100% S=90% S=80% S=70% S=60% S=50% S=40% S=30% S=20% S=10%
25.00
20.00
dry (kN/m3)
15.00
10.00
5.00
0.00 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55
w (%)
Chapter 2
2-5b Prepare a graph like that in Problem 2.4, only use dry density units of pounds per cubic feet.
SOLUTION: dry =
Gs w S S + Gs w
S= w
(%)
100 dry
(pcf)
90 dry
(pcf)
80 dry
(pcf)
70 dry
(pcf)
60 dry
(pcf)
50 dry
(pcf)
40 dry
(pcf)
30 dry
(pcf)
20 dry
(pcf)
10 dry
(pcf)
0.0 5.0 10.0 15.0 20.0 25.0 30.0 35.0 40.0 45.0 50.0
165.36 146.01 130.72 118.33 108.08 99.46 92.12 85.79 80.27 75.42 71.12
165.36 144.14 127.75 114.70 104.07 95.25 87.80 81.44 75.93 71.12 66.89
165.36 141.86 124.21 110.47 99.46 90.45 82.94 76.58 71.12 66.39 62.25
165.36 139.04 119.95 105.47 94.11 84.96 77.43 71.12 65.77 61.16 57.16
165.36 135.45 114.70 99.46 87.80 78.59 71.12 64.95 59.77 55.35 51.54
165.36 130.72 108.08 92.12 80.27 71.12 63.85 57.92 53.00 48.85 45.30
165.36 124.21 99.46 82.94 71.12 62.25 55.35 49.83 45.30 41.53 38.34
165.36 114.70 87.80 71.12 59.77 51.54 45.30 40.41 36.48 33.24 30.53
S=100% S=90% S=80% S=70% S=60% S=50% S=40% S=30% S=20% S=10%
165.36 99.46 71.12 55.35 45.30 38.34 33.24 29.33 26.25 23.75 21.69
165.36 71.12 45.30 33.24 26.25 21.69 18.48 16.09 14.26 12.79 11.60
Problem 2-5b
180.00 160.00 140.00 120.00 100.00 80.00 60.00 40.00 20.00 0.00 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40
dry (pcf)
45
50
55
w (%)
Chapter 2
2.6. Prepare a graph like that in Problem 2.4, only for S = 100% and vary the density of solids from 2.60 to 2.80 Mg/m3. You decide the size of the increments you need to satisfactorily evaluate the relationship as s varies. Prepare a concluding statement of your observations. SOLUTION: From Eq. 2.12 and Eq. 2.15: dry =
w S w+ w S s
Note: The relationship between dry and w is not overly sensitive to s.
s = w
(%)
2.6 dry
(Mg/m3)
2.65 dry
(Mg/m3)
2.7 dry
(Mg/m3)
2.75 dry
(Mg/m3)
2.8 dry
(Mg/m3)
0.0 5.0 10.0 15.0 20.0 25.0 30.0 35.0 40.0 45.0 50.0
3.00 2.50 2.00 s (Mg/m3) 1.50 1.00 0.50 0.00 0
2.60 2.30 2.06 1.87 1.71 1.58 1.46 1.36 1.27 1.20 1.13
2.65 2.34 2.09 1.90 1.73 1.59 1.48 1.37 1.29 1.21 1.14
2.70 2.38 2.13 1.92 1.75 1.61 1.49 1.39 1.30 1.22 1.15
2.75 2.42 2.16 1.95 1.77 1.63 1.51 1.40 1.31 1.23 1.16
2.80 2.46 2.19 1.97 1.79 1.65 1.52 1.41 1.32 1.24 1.17
10
15
20
25 30 w (%)
35
40
45
50
55
Chapter 2
2.7. The dry density of a compacted sand is 1.87 Mg/m3 and the density of the solids is 2.67 Mg/m3. What is the water content of the material when saturated? SOLUTION:
From Eq. 2-12 and Eq. 2-15: dry = w S ; Note: S = 100% w w+ S s
1 1 1 1 = (1Mg / m3 )(100%) = 16.0% Solving for w: w = w S 3 3 dry s 2.67Mg / m 1.87 Mg / m
2.8. A soil that is completely saturated has a total density of 2045 kg/m3 and a water content of 24%. What is the density of the solids? What is the dry density of the soil? SOLUTION: a) Solve using equations or phase diagrams:
dry = t 2045 = = 1649.2 kg / m3 (1 + w) (1 + 0.24)
sat = 1 w dry + w s w dry (1000)(1649.2) s = = = 2729.6 kg / m3 dry + w sat (1649.2 + 1000 2045)
b) Solve using phase diagram relationships:

assume Vt = 1.0 Mt = 2045 kg Mw = 0.24 Mw = 0.24Ms Ms Mt = Mw + Ms 2045 = 0.24Ms + Ms Ms = 1649.19 kg w = 1000 = s = 0.24Ms Mw Vw = = 0.3958 m3 Vw 1000
Ms 1649.19 = = 2729.6 kg / m3 Vs 1 0.3958 Ms 1649.19 = = 1649.2 kg / m3 Vt 1
dry =
Chapter 2
2.9 What is the water content of a fully saturated soil with a dry density of 1.72 Mg/m3? Assume s = 2.72 Mg/m3. SOLUTION:
From Eq. 2-12 and Eq. 2-15: dry = w S ; Note: S = 100% w+ w S s
1 1 1 1 = (1Mg / m3 )(100%) Solving for w: w = w S = 21.4% dry s 1.72 Mg / m3 2.72 Mg / m3
2.10. A dry quartz sand has a density of 1.68 Mg/m3. Determine its density when the degree of saturation is 75%. The density of solids for quartz is 2.65 Mg/m3. SOLUTION: Recognize that dry (initial) = dry (final); S(final) = 75%
From Eq. 2-12 and Eq. 2-15: dry = w S w+ w S s
1 1 1 1 = (1Mg / m3 )(75%) = 16.34% Solving for w: w = w S 3 3 dry s 2.65 Mg / m 1.68 Mg / m final t = dry (1 + w) = 1.68(1 + 0.1634) = 1.95 Mg / m3
2.11. The dry density of a soil is 1.60 Mg/m3 and the solids have a density of 2.65 Mg/m3. Find the (a) water content, (b) void ratio, and (c) total density when the soil is saturated. SOLUTION: Given: S = 100%
From Eq. 2-12 and Eq. 2-15: dry = w S w+ w S s
1 1 1 1 = (1Mg / m3 )(100%) = 24.76% (a) Solving for w: w = w S 3 3 dry s 2.65 Mg / m 1.60 Mg / m ws (24.76)(2.65) = (b) From Eq. 2.15: e = = 0.656 S w (100)(1.0) (c) t = dry (1 + w) = 1.60(1 + 0.2476) = 1.996 = 2.00 Mg / m3
Chapter 2
2.12. A natural deposit of soil is found to have a water content of 20% and to be 90% saturated. What is the void ratio of this soil? SOLUTION:
w = 20% and S = 90%; assume Gs = 2.70 From Eq. 2.15: e = ws (20.0)(2.70) = = 0.60 S w (90)(1.0)
2.13. A chunk of soil has a wet weight of 62 lb and a volume of 0.56 ft3. When dried in an oven, the soil weighs 50 lb. If the specific gravity of solids Gs = 2.64, determine the water content, wet unit weight, dry unit weight, and void ratio of the soil. SOLUTION: Solve using phase diagram relationships.
(a) Ww = Wt Ws = 62 50 = 12 lb w= Ww 12(100) 100% = = 24.0% Ws 50 Wt 62 = = 110.7 pcf Vt 0.56 Ws 50 = = 89.29 pcf Vt 0.56 Ww 12 = = 0.1923 ft 3 62.4 w
(b) t =
(c) dry = (d) Vw = Vs =
Ws 50 = = 0.3035 ft 3 Gs w (2.64)(62.4)
Vv = Vt Vv = 0.56 0.3035 = 0.2565 e= Vv 0.2565 = = 0.8451 = 0.84 Vs 0.3035
2.14. In the lab, a container of saturated soil had a mass of 113.27 g before it was placed in the oven and 100.06 g after the soil had dried. The container alone had a mass of 49.31 g. The specific gravity of solids is 2.80. Determine the void ratio and water content of the original soil sample. SOLUTION: Solve using phase diagram relationships.
Ms = 100.06 49.31 = 50.75 g Mw = 113.27 100.06 = 13.21 g (a) w = Mw 13.21(100) 100% = = 26.03 = 26.0% Ms 50.75 s w 2.80(26.03) = = 0.7288 = 0.73 w S (1)(100)
(b) From Eq. 2.15: e=
Chapter 2
2.15. The natural water content of a sample taken from a soil deposit was found to be 12.0%. It has been calculated that the maximum density for the soil will be obtained when the water content reaches 22.0%. Compute how many grams of water must be added to each 1000 g of soil (in its natural state) in order to increase the water content to 22.0%. SOLUTION:
Natural state w = 0.12 = Mw Ms Mw = (0.12)Ms
Mt = Ms + Mw = Ms + 0.12Ms = 1.12Ms = 1000 g Ms = 892.857 g Mw = (0.12)(892.857) = 107.143 g Target state (Note: Ms does not change between natural state and target state) Mw = w Ms = (0.22)(892.857) = 196.429 g additional water necessary = 196.429 107.143 = 89.286 = 89.29 g
2.16. A cubic meter of dry quartz sand (Gs = 2.65) with a porosity of 60% is immersed in an oil bath having a density of 0.92 g/cm3. If the sand contains 0.27 m3 of entrapped air, how much force is required to prevent it from sinking? Assume that a weightless membrane surrounds the specimen. (Prof. C. C. Ladd.) SOLUTION:
Vt = 1m3 = 1 ,000,000 cm3 Vv = n Vt = (0.6)(1.0) = 0.60 m3 Vs = Vt Vv = 1.0 0.60 = 0.40 m3 Ms = Gs s Vs = (2.65)(1000 kg m )(0.40 m3 ) = 1060 kg = Mt
3
t =
Mt 1060 = = 1060 kg m Vt 1.0
buoy = t oil = 1060 920 = 140 kg m
buoy = buoy g = (140)(9.81) = 1373.4 N m Force = buoy (entrapped air) = 1373.4

N
m3
0.27 m3 = 370.8 N
Chapter 2
2.17. A soil sample taken from a borrow pit has a natural void ratio of 1.15. The soil will be used for a highway project where a total of 100,000 m3 of soil is needed in its compacted state; its compacted void ratio is 0.73. How much volume has to be excavated from the borrow pit to meet the job requirements? SOLUTION:
V Vv Vt Vs = Vs = t e e e +1 Embankment Vs = Vt = 100,000 m3 100,000 = 57,803.47 m3 0.73 + 1 Borrow Pit Vs(emb) = Vs(borr ) = Vs(emb) = Vt(borr ) Vt e +1 = Vs (eborr + 1) = (57,803.47)(1.15 + 1) = 124,277 m3
2.18. A sample of moist soil was found to have the following characteristics: Total volume: 0.01456 m3 Total mass: 25.74 kg Mass after oven drying: 22.10 kg Specific gravity of solids: 2.69 Find the density, unit weight, void ratio, porosity, and degree of saturation for the moist soil. SOLUTION:
25.74 = 1767.857 = 1768 kg m 0.01456 (b) t = t g = (1767.857)(9.81) = 17,342.68 N m = 17.34 kN m (a) t =
3 3
(c) Vs =
Ms 22.10 = = 0.00822 m3 Gs w (2.69)(1000)
Vv = 0.01456 0.00822 = 0.006344 m3 0.006344 = 0.7718 = 0.77 0.00822 0.7718 (d) n = 100 = 43.56 = 43.6% 1 + 0.7718 (e) Mw = 25.74 22.10 = 3.64 e= 3.64 = 0.00364 1000 0.00364 S= 100 = 57.377 = 57.4% 0.006344 Vw =
Chapter 2
2.19. A gray silty clay (CL) is sampled from a depth of 12.5 feet. The moist soil was extruded from a 6-inch-high brass liner with an inside diameter of 2.83 inches and weighed 777 grams. (a) Calculate the wet density in pounds per cubic feet. (b) A small chunk of the original sample had a wet weight of 140.9 grams and weighed 85.2 grams after drying. Compute the water content, using the correct number of significant figures. (c) Compute the dry density in Mg/m3 and the dry unit weight in kN/m3. SOLUTION:
(2.83)2 (a) Vt = 6 = 37.741in3 , 4 M t = t = Vt
) ( 37.741in ) (1 ft 12 in)
( 777 g) 1lb 453.6 g
3
= 78.429 = 78.4 pcf
(b) Mw = Mt Ms = 140.9 85.2 = 55.7 g, (c) dry = t 78.4 = = 47.40 pcf (1 + w) (1 + 0.654)
3
w=
Mw 55.7 100% = = 65.38 = 65.4% Ms 85.2
dry = ( 47.4 lb ft
) (1 ft 0.3048 m )
(0.4536 kg1lb) = 759.288

3 3
kg
m3
= 0.759 Mg m
dry = (759.288)(9.81) = 7448.6 N m = 7.45 kN m
2.20. A cylindrical soil specimen is tested in the laboratory. The following properties were obtained: Sample diameter 3 inches Sample length 6 inches Wt. before drying in oven 2.95 lb Wt. after drying in oven 2.54 lb Oven temperature 110C Drying time 24 hours Specific gravity of solids 2.65 What is the degree of saturation of this specimen? SOLUTION:
(3)2 6 = 42.4115 in3 = 0.02454 ft 3 4 Ws 2.54 Vs = = = 0.01536 ft 3 = 26.542 in3 Gs w (2.65)(62.4) Vt = Vv = Vt Vs = 42.4115 26.542 = 15.869 in3 = 0.009184 ft 3 Ww = Wt Ws = 2.95 2.54 = 0.41lb Vw = S= Ww 0.41 = = 0.00657 ft 3 = 11.354 in3 62.4 w
Vw 11.354 100 = 71.5% 100% = 15.869 Vv
Chapter 2
2.21 A sample of saturated silt is 10 cm in diameter and 2.5 cm thick. Its void ratio in this state is 1.35, and the specific gravity of solids is 2.70. The sample is compressed to a 2-cm thickness without a change in diameter. (a) Find the density of the silt sample, in prior to being compressed. (b) Find the void ratio after compression and the change in water content that occurred from initial to final state. SOLUTION:
(a) Vt = (10)2 2.5 = 196.350 cm3 4 V S = 1 = w Vw = Vv Vv Vv = e Vs = 1.35Vs Vt = Vv + Vs = 1.35Vs + Vs = 2.35Vs = 196.350 Vs = 83.553 cm3 Vv = (1.35)(83.553) = 112.797 cm3 = Vw Mw = w Vw = (1 g cm3 )(112.797) = 112.797 g Ms = Gs Vs w = (2.70)(83.553)(1 g cm3 ) = 225.594 g Mt = 112.797 + 225.594 = 338.391 g t = Mt 338.391 = = 1.723 Vt 196.35
g cm3
= 1723 kg m3
(b) Vt 2 =
(10)2 2.0 = 157.08 cm3 4 Vs = 83.553 cm3 (no change) Vv = Vt Vs = 157.08 83.553 = 73.527 cm3 73.527 = 0.88 83.553
e final =
(c) w initial =
112.797 100% = 50.0% 225.594 final conditions Vw = Vv = 73.527 cm3 ; Mw = 73.527 g; Ms = 225.594 g (no change) 73.527 100% = 32.6% 225.594 w = 50.0 32.6 = 17.4% w final =
Chapter 2
2.22. A sample of sand has the following properties: total mass Mt = 160 g; total volume Vt =80 cm3; water content w = 20%; specific gravity of solids Gs =2.70. How much would the sample volume have to change to get 100% saturation, assuming the sample mass Mt stayed the same? SOLUTION:
Mw = w Ms = (0.20)Ms Mt = Ms + 0.20Ms = 160 g Ms = 133.33 g Mw = (0.20)(133.33) = 26.667 g; Vw = (1 g cm )Mw = 26.667 cm3
3
Vs = Si =
Ms 133.33 = = 49.383 cm3 ; Gs w 2.70 26.667 100% = 87.10% 30.617
Vv = 80 49.383 = 30.617 cm3
Desired condition: S = 100% Vt changes, but Vs and Ms remain the same Mw = 26.667 g; Vv = Vw Vw = 26.667 cm3 (when S = 100%)
Vt = Vs + Vv = 49.383 + 26.667 = 76.053 cm3 V = 80 76.053 = 3.95 cm3
Chapter 2
2.23. Draw a phase diagram and begin to fill in the blanks: A soil specimen has total volume of 80,000 mm3 and weighs 145 g. The dry weight of the specimen is 128 g, and the density of the soil solids is 2.68 Mg/m3. Find the: (a) water content, (b) void ratio, (c) porosity, (d) degree of saturation, (e) wet density, and (f) dry density. Give the answers to parts (e) and (f) in both SI and British engineering units. SOLUTION:
(a) Mw 145 128 = 17 g w= Mw 17 100% = 100 = 13.281 = 13.3% Ms 128 Ms 128 = = 47.7612 cm3 = 47,761.2 mm3 Gs w (2.68)(1)
(b) Vs =
Vv = 80,000 47,761.2 = 32,238.8 mm3 e= 32,238.8 = 0.67 47,761.2 32,238.8 100% = 40.3% 80,000
(c) n =
(d) Vw = Mw w = (17)(1) = 17 cm3 = 17,000 mm3 S= 17,000 100% = 52.7% 32,238.8
(e) t =
145 = 1.8125 g cm = 1812.5 kg m 80 1 lbm t = 1812.5 kg m = 113.2 ft 16.018

3 3
(see Appendix A)
(f ) dry =
1812.5 = 1600.0 kg m (1 + 0.13281)

3
1 lbm dry = 1600.0 kg m = 99.9 ft 16.018
(see Appendix A)
Chapter 2
2.24. A sample of soil plus container weighs 397.6 g when the initial water content is 6.3%. The container weighs 258.7 g. How much water needs to be added to the original specimen if the water content is to be increased by 3.4%? After U.S. Dept. of Interior (1990). SOLUTION:
Mt = 397.6 258.7 = 138.9 g Mw = 0.063Ms Mt = 138.9 = Mw + Ms = 0.063Ms + Ms = 1.063Ms Ms = 130.668 g w = Mw = 0.034 Ms
Mw = w Ms = (0.034)(130.668) = 4.44 g
2.25. A water-content test was made on a sample of clayey silt. The weight of the wet soil plus container was 18.46 g, and the weight of the dry soil plus container was 15.03 g. Weight of the empty container was 7.63 g. Calculate the water content of the sample. SOLUTION:
Ms = 15.03 7.63 = 7.40 g Mw = 18.46 15.03 = 3.43 g (a) w = Mw 3.43(100) 100% = = 46.351 = 46.3% Ms 7.40
Chapter 2
2.26. A soil sample is dried in a microwave oven to determine its water content. From the data below, evaluate the water content and draw conclusions. The oven-dried water content is 23.7%. The mass of the dish is 146.30 grams. After U.S. Dept. of Interior (1990). SOLUTION:
Mt = 231.62 146.3 = 85.32 g Mw = (0.237)Ms 85.32 = 0.237Ms + Ms Ms = 68.9733 g (this value is constant throughout drying period) column 5 = 231.62 column 3 100% 68.9733
CONCLUSION: The loss of additional water in the soil sample becomes negligible after 8 to 10 minutes in the microwave oven used in the experiment.
GIVEN Time in Oven (min) 0 3 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 Total Oven Time (min) 0 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mass of Soil + Dish (g) 231.62 217.75 216.22 215.72 215.48 215.32 215.22 215.19 215.19
CALCULATED Mass of Water (g) -13.87 15.40 15.90 16.14 16.30 16.40 16.43 16.43 Water Content (%) -20.11 22.33 23.05 23.40 23.63 23.78 23.82 23.82
25.0
Water Content (%)
24.0 23.0 22.0 21.0 20.0 19.0 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

Time in Oven (min)
Chapter 2
2.27. The mass of a sample of silty clay soil plus container is 18.43 g and the weight of the dry soil plus container is 13.67 g. The container weighs 8.84 g. Compute the water content of the sample. SOLUTION:
Ms = 13.67 8.84 = 4.83 g Mw = 18.43 13.67 = 4.76 g (a) w = Mw 4.76(100) 100% = = 98.5% Ms 4.83
2.28. A specimen of fully saturated clay soil that weighs 1389 g in its natural state weighs 982 g after drying. What is the natural water content of the soil? SOLUTION:
Mw = 1389 982 = 407 g (a) w = Mw 407(100) 100% = = 41.4% Ms 982
2.29. The volume of water in a sample of moist soil is 0.24 m3. The volume of solids Vs is 0.25 m3. Given that the density of soil solids s is 2600 kg/m3, find the water content. SOLUTION:
Ms = s Vs = (2600)(0.25) = 650 kg Mw = w Vw = (1000)(0.24) = 240 kg w= 240 100% = 36.9% 650
2.30. For the soil sample of Problem 2.29, compute (a) the void ratio and (b) the porosity. SOLUTION: Assume S = 100%
(a) e = Gs w (2.6)(0.3692) = = 0.96 S (1) 0.96 (b) n = 100 = 50.0% 1 + 0.96
Chapter 2
2.31. For the soil sample of Problem 2.29, compute (a) the total or wet density and (b) the dry density. Give your answers in Mg/m3, kg/m3, and lbf/ft3. SOLUTION: Assume S = 100%
(a) Vt = 0.25 + 0.24 = 0.49 m3 t = 710 = 1448.98 kg m = 1.45 Mg m = 90.4 lbm ft 0.49
3 3 3
(b) dry =
650 = 1326.53 kg m = 1.33 Mg m = 82.8 lbm ft 0.49

3 3
2.32. A 592-cm3 volume of moist sand weighs 1090 g. Its dry weight is 920 g and the density of solids is 2680 kg/m3. Compute the void ratio, porosity, water content, degree of saturation, and total density in kg/m3. SOLUTION:
s = 2680 kg m = 2.68
3
cm3
920 = 343.284 cm3 2.68 Vv = 592 343.284 = 248.716 cm3 Vs = (a) e = Vv 248.716 = = 0.7245 = 0.72 Vs 343.284 0.7245 100% = 42.0% 1 + 0.7245
(b) n =
(c) Mw = 1090 920 = 170 g Vw = S= 170 = 170 cm3 w
Vw 170 100% = 100 = 68.4% Vv 248.716 1090 = 1.841 g cm = 1841 kg m 592

3
(d) t =
Chapter 2
2.33. The saturated density sat of a soil is 137 lbf/ft3. Find the buoyant density of this soil in both lbf/ft3 and kg/m3. SOLUTION:
' = 137 62.4 = 74.6 lbf ft
3 3
16.018 kg m ' = ( 74.6 lbf ft ) 1lbm ft

3
= 1195 kg m
2.34. A sand is composed of solid constituents having a density of 2.68 Mg/m3. The void ratio is 0.58. Compute the density of the sand when dry and when saturated and compare it with the density when submerged. SOLUTION:
Assume Vs = 1m3 Vv = 0.58, dry = Vt = 1 + 0.58 = 1.58 m3
3
2.68 = 1.6962 = 1.70 Mg m 1.58
For S = 100%; Vw = Vv = 0.58 m3 Mw = (1)(0.58) = 0.58 Mg Mt = 2.68 + 0.58 = 3.26 Mg 3.26 = 2.06 Mg m 1.58 ' = 2.06 1.0 = 1.06 Mg m sat =
3
Chapter 2
2.35. A sample of natural glacial till was taken from below the groundwater table. The water content was found to be 52%. Estimate the wet density, dry density, buoyant density, porosity, and void ratio. Clearly state any necessary assumptions. SOLUTION:
Assume Vs = 1m3 , Assume Gs = 2.7 Ms = Gs Vs s = (2.7)(1)(1) = 2.7 Mg, Mw = w Ms = (0.52)(2.7) = 1.404 Mg Mt = 2.7 + 1.404 = 4.104 Mg S= Vw = 1 Vw = Vv , Vv Vw = Mw = 1.404 m3 = Vv w
Vt = 1.404 + 1.0 = 2.404 m3 4.104 = 1.71 Mg m 2.404 2.7 (b) dry = = 1.12 Mg m 2.404 (c) ' = 1.71 1.0 = 0.71 Mg m (a) t =
3 3
1.404 100% = 58.4% 2.404 1.404 (e) e = = 1.4 1.0 (d) n =
2.36. A 1-m3 sample of moist soil weighs 2000 kg. The water content is 10%. Assume s = 2.70 Mg/m3. With this information, fill in all blanks in the phase diagram of Fig. P2.36. SOLUTION:
Mw = Ms w = 0.10Ms Mt = 2000 = Ms + 0.10Ms = 1.10Ms Ms = 1818.18 kg Mw = (0.10)(1818.18) = 181.82 kg Vs = Ms 1818.18 = = 0.673 m3 , s 2700 Vw = 181.82 = 0.181m3 1000
Vv = 1 0.673 = 0.327 m3 ,
Va = 0.327 0.181 = 0.146 m3
Volume (m3) Vv = 0.33 Va = 0.15 Vw = 0.18 Vs = 0.67 air water solid
Mass (kg)
Vt = 1.0
Mw = 182 Ms = 1818
Mt = 2000
Chapter 2
2.37. For the information given in Problem 2.36, calculate (a) the void ratio, (b) the porosity, and (c) the dry density. SOLUTION:
0.327 = 0.4859 = 0.49 0.673 0.327 (b) n = 100 = 32.7% 1.0 1818.18 (c) dry = = 1818 kg m 1.0 (a) e =
3
2.38. The void ratio of clay soil is 0.6 and the degree of saturation is 75%. Assuming the density of the solids is 2710 kg/m3, compute (a) the water content and (b) dry and wet densities in both SI and British engineering units. SOLUTION:
Assume Vs = 1.0 m3 Vv = e Vs = (0.6)(1.0) = 0.6 m3 , Vt = 0.6 + 1.0 = 1.6 m3 Mw = w Vw = (1000)(0.45) = 450 kg, Mt = 450 + 2710 = 3160 kg (a) w = Mw 450 100 = 100 = 16.6 % Ms 2710 Ms 2710 = = 1693.75 = 1694 kg m 1.6 Vt
3 3
Vw = S Vv = (0.75)(0.6) = 0.45 m3 Ms = s Vs = (2710)(1.0) = 2710 kg
(b) dry =
1 lbm ft dry = (1694 kg m ) 16.018 kg m Mt 3160 t = = = 1975 kg m Vt 1.6

3
= 105.8 lbm ft
t = (1975) 1 = 123.3 lbm ft 16.018
Chapter 2
2.39. A specimen of saturated glacial clay has a water content of 38%. On the assumption that s = 2.70 Mg/m3, compute the void ratio, porosity, and saturated density. SOLUTION:
w = 38%, S = 100%, s = 2.70 Mg m (a) From Eq. 2.15: (b) n = e=
3
ws (38.0)(2.70) = = 1.026 = 1.03 S w (100)(1.0)
e 1.026 100 = 100 = 50.6 % 1+ e 1 + 1.026 + w e (2.70) + (1.0)(1.026) = = 1.8391 = 1.84 Mg m (c) From Eq. 2.17: sat = s 1+ e 1 + 1.026
2.40. The values of minimum e and maximum e for a pure silica sand were found to be 0.50 and 0.70, respectively. What is the corresponding range in the saturated density in kg/m3? SOLUTION:
Eq. 2.17: sat = s + w e 1+ e (2.70) + (1.0)(0.50) = 2.13 Mg m max imum : sat = 1 + 0.50 (2.70) + (1.0)(0.70) = 2.00 Mg m minimum : sat = 1 + 0.70
3
Chapter 2
2.41. Calculate the maximum possible porosity and void ratio for a collection of (a) tennis balls (assume they are 64.14 mm in diameter) and (b) tiny ball bearings 0.3 mm in diameter. SOLUTION: Three-dimensional particle arrangement of equal spheres has been studied in depth by mathematicians, statisticians, and materials scientists since the 1600s. A quick internet search on packing of equal spheres will reveal numerous mathematical theories and approaches for estimating the densest and loosest possible packing. In general, the loosest arrangement of equal spheres yields a void fraction of about 0.48, regardless of sphere size. As an aside, the densest possible packing of equal-size spheres yields a solids volume of about: Vs = = 0.7405. (These values are approximate there is not a unified consensus in the 18 literature.)
Loosest packing For Vt = 1.0, thus; nmax = emax = Vv 100 = Vt 0.48 100 = 48 % 1.0 Vv = 0.48, and Vs = 1 0.48 = 0.52
Vv 0.48 = = 0.92 Vs 0.52
Densest packing (not required in problem statement) Vs = 0.7405, thus; nmin = emin 0.2595 100 = 26% 1.0 0.2595 = = 0.35 0.7405 Vv = 1.0 0.7405 = 0.2595
2.42. A plastic-limit test has the following results: Wet weight + container = 23.12 g Dry weight + container = 20.84 g Container weight = 1.46 g Compute the PL of the soil. Can the plastic limit be evaluated by a one-point method? SOLUTION:
Ww = 23.12 20.84 = 2.28 g, PL = Ws = 20.84 1.46 = 19.38 g Ww 2.28 100 = 100 = 11.8 Ws 19.38
The plastic limit cannot be evaluated using a one-point method. 2.43. During a plastic-limit test, the following data was obtained for one of the samples: Wet weight + container = 23.13 g

Dry weight + container = 19.12 g Container weight = 1.50 g What is the PL of the soil? SOLUTION:
Ww = 23.13 19.12 = 4.01 g, PL = Ws = 19.12 1.50 = 17.62 g Ww 4.01 100 = 100 = 22.8 Ws 17.62
Chapter 2
2.44. The degree of saturation of a cohesive soil is 100%. The clay when wet weighs 1489 g and after drying weighs only 876 g. Find the water content of the soil. Draw a phase diagram and properly label it. SOLUTION:
S = 100%, Mt = 1489 g, Ms = 876 g Mw = 1489 876 = 613 g; Mt = 876 + 613 = 1489 g w= Mw 613 100 = 100 = 70.0% Ms 876 Mw 613 = = 613 cm3 , w 1.0 g cm
3
Vw =
Vv =
Vw 613 = = 613 cm3 S 1.0
Assume Gs = 2.70 thus; Vs = Ms 876 = = 324.4 cm3 ; Gs w (2.7)(1.0) Vt = 613 + 324 = 937 cm3
Volume (cm3) Vv =
937
Mass (g) air
Va
613
Vt =
Vw = Vs =
613 324
water solid
Mw = 613 Ms = 876
Mt = 1489
2.45. For the soil in the previous problem, compute the void ratio and the porosity. Does your answer compare with what you would expect for a saturated cohesive soil? SOLUTION:
e= Vv 613 = = 1.89; Vs 324 n= Vv 613 100% = 100 = 65.4% Vt 937
2.46. For the soil in the previous two problems, compute (a) the total or wet density and (b) the dry density. Provide your answers in units of Mg/m3, kN/m3, and lbf/ft3. SOLUTION:

(a) t = Mt 1489 = = 1.5891 g cm = 1.59 Mg m Vt 937
3 3 3
Chapter 2
t = 15.59 kN m = 99.2 lbf ft
(b) dry =
Ms 876 = = 0.9349 Vt 937

3 3
g cm3
= 0.93 Mg m
dry = 9.17 kN m = 58.3 lbf ft
2.47. A soil specimen had a buoyant density of 73 pounds per cubic foot. Calculate its wet density in kg/m3. SOLUTION:
' = 73 lb ft ;
3
t = sat = '+ w = 73 + 62.4 = 135.4 lb ft

3
t = (135.4)(16.018) = 2169 kg m
Chapter 2
2.53. The chunk density method is often used to determine the unit weight of a specimen of irregular shape. A specimen of cemented silty sand is treated in this way to obtain the chunk density. From the information given below, determine the (a) wet density, (b) dry density, (c) void ratio, and (d) degree of saturation of the sample. Mass of specimen at natural water content in air = 181.8 g Mass of specimen + wax coating in air = 215.9 g Mass of specimen + wax in water = 58.9 g Natural water content = 2.5% Soil solid density = 2650 kg/m3 Wax solid density = 940 kg/m3 SOLUTION:
w= Vs = Mt Ms Ms Ms = Mt 181.8 = = 177.366 g 1 + w 1 + .025 Vw = Mw = Mt Ms = 181.8 177.4 = 4.43 g
Ms 177.366 g = = 66.93 cm3 s 2.650 g cm3
Mw 4.43 g = = 4.43 cm3 w 1.0 g cm3 Vwax = Mwax 34.1 = = 36.28 cm3 wax 0.940
Mwax = Mt + wax Mt = 215.9 181.8 = 34.1 g Mwater displaced = Mt + wax Mwater displaced Vt + wax = Mwater displaced w =
Mwater displaced = 215.9 58.9 = 157.0 g
157.0 = 157.0 cm3 1.0 Vt = Vt + wax Vwax = 157.0 36.28 = 120.72 cm3
Vair = Vt + wax Vwax Vw Vs = 157.0 36.28 4.43 66.93 = 49.36 cm3 Vv = Vair + Vw = 49.36 + 4.43 = 53.79 cm3 (a) t = Mt 181.8 = = 1.50 Mg m3 Vt 120.72 Ms 177.366 = = 1.47 Mg m3 Vt 120.72
(b) dry = (c) e = (d) S =
Vv 53.79 = = 0.80 Vs 66.93 Vw 4.43 100% = 100 = 8.2 % Vv 53.79
Volume (cm3) Vwax = Vt+wax =

157.0 36.28 49.36 4.43 66.93
Mass (g) wax air water solid Mw = 4.43 Ms = 177.4 Mt = 181.1 Mwax = 34.1
Vv =
120.72
Va =
53.79
Vt =
Vw = Vs =
Chapter 2
2.54. A sensitive volcanic clay soil was tested in the laboratory and found to have the following properties: (a) = 1.28 Mg/m3, (b) e = 0.90, (c) S = 95%, (d) s = 2.75 Mg/m3, (e) w = 311%. In rechecking the above values, one was found to be inconsistent with the rest. Find the inconsistent value and report it correctly. Show all your computations and phase diagrams. SOLUTION:
Assume Vs = 1 cm3 Ms = s Vs = 2.75 Mg; (1) Vt = Mw = w Ms = (3.11)(2.75) = 8.55 Mg Mt = Ms + Mw = 2.75 + 8.55 = 11.30 Mg Mt 11.30 = = 8.83 cm3 t 1.28 Vw = Mw 8.55 = = 8.55 cm3 w 1.0
Vv = e Vs = (9)(1) = 9 cm3 ;
(2) Vt = Vv + Vs = 9 + 1 = 10 cm3 8.83 cm3 check : Gs w = Se (2.65)(3.11) = (0.95)(9.0) 8.55 = 8.55 These values are in correct proportion. Consequently, the error must be in the t value. Re-calculate t = Mt 11.30 = = 1.13 Mg m Vt 10
3 3
Solution : t = 1.13 Mg m
Volume (m3) Vv = 9.0 Vt = 8.83 or

10.0?
Mass (Mg) air water solid Mw = 8.55 Ms = 2.75 Mt = 11.30
Va Vw = 8.55 Vs = 1.0
Chapter 2
2.55. A cylinder contains 510 cm3 of loose dry sand which weighs 740 g. Under a static load of 200 kPa the volume is reduced 1%, and then by vibration it is reduced 10% of the original volume. Assume the solid density of the sand grains is 2.65 Mg/m3. Compute the void ratio, porosity, dry density, and total density corresponding to each of the following cases: (a) Loose sand. (b) Sand under static load. (c) Vibrated and loaded sand. SOLUTION:
Vs = Ms 740 = = 279.24 cm3 ; s 2.65 Mt = 740 g;
dry sand: Mw = Vw = 0.0 (a) Loose sand - initial condition Vt = 510 cm3 Vv = Vt Vs = 510 279.24 = 230.75 cm3 e= Vv 230.75 = = 0.83; Vs 279.24 Ms 740 = = 1.45 Vt 510
3
n=
Vv 230.75 100% = 100 = 45.2% Vt 510

3
dry =
g cm3
= 1.45 Mg m
dry = t = 1.45 Mg m
(b) Sand under static load 510 = 504.95 cm3 1.01 Vv = Vt Vs = 504.95 279.24 = 225.71 cm3 Vt = e= Vv 225.71 = = 0.81; Vs 279.24 Ms 740 = = 1.47 Vt 504.95
3
n=
g cm3
Vv 225.71 100% = 100 = 44.2% Vt 510

3
dry =
= 1.47 Mg m
dry = t = 1.47 Mg m
(c) Vibrated and loaded sand 510 = 454.54 cm3 1.10 Vv = Vt Vs = 454.54 279.24 = 175.30 cm3 Vt = e= Vv 175.30 = = 0.63; Vs 279.24 Ms 740 = = 1.63 Vt 454.54
3
n=
g cm3
Vv 175.30 100% = 100 = 38.6% Vt 454.54

3
dry =
= 1.63 Mg m
dry = t = 1.63 Mg m
Chapter 2
2.56. On five-cycle semilogarithmic paper, plot the grain-size distribution curves from the following mechanical analysis data on six soils, A through F. For each soil determine the effective size as well as the uniformity coefficient and the coefficient of curvature. Determine also the percentages of gravel, sand silt, and clay according to (a) ASTM, (b) AASHTO, (c) USCS, and (d) the British Standard.
continued next page

2.56. continued.
Chapter 2
D SOLUTION: Cu = 60 D10
Cc =
(D30 )
D60 D10
Particle Size Distribution
GRAVEL Coarse 100 90 Fine Course
SAND Medium Fine
SILT or CLAY 100 90 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10
Percent finer by weight
80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0 100 LEGEND 10 1 0.1 0.01
0 0.001
Grain size in millimeters

Soil A Soil B Soil C Soil D Soil E Soil F
Soil Type: Description: Depth: LL: PL: Cu = Cc =
PI:
Soil A B C D E F
Effective Size D10 (mm) 0.6 0.005 0.001 0.16 0.006 N/D
D30 (mm) 6 0.04 0.06 0.22 0.015 N/D
D60 (mm) 28 0.09 1 0.3 0.1 0.003
Cu 46.7 18.0 1000.0 1.9 16.7 N/D
Cc 2.1 3.6 3.6 1.0 0.4 N/D
continued next page

2.56. continued.
Chapter 2
(a) Percentages according to ASTM.

Soil A B C D E F Gravel (%) 73 12 19 0 0 0 Sand (%) 23 33 49 100 43 0 Fines (silt + clay) 4 55 32 0 57 100 Silt (%) 4 45 18 0 49 29 Clay (%) 0 10 14 0 8 71
(b) Percentages according to AASHTO.

(c) Percentages according to USCS.

Soil A B C D E F Gravel (%) 73 12 19 0 0 0 Sand (%) 23 33 49 100 43 0 Fines (silt + clay) 4 55 32 0 57 100 Silt (%) ------Clay (%) -------
(d) Percentages according to the British Standard.

Chapter 2
2.58. The soils in Problem 2.56 have the following Atterberg limits and natural water contents. Determine the PI and LI for each soil and comment on their general activity. SOLUTION: PI = LL PL;
Property wn (%) LL PL PI LI Soil A 27 13 8 5 3.8
LI =
w n PL PI
Soil C 14 35 18 17 -0.24 Soil D 11 -NP 0 -Soil E 8 28 NP 0 -Soil F 72 60 28 32 1.38
Soil B 14 35 29 6 -2.5
Soil A: very sensitive, highly active Soil B: most likely a clay above the water table that has experienced a decrease in moisture Soil C: most likely a clay above the water table that has experienced a decrease in moisture Soil D: most likely a fine sand Soil E: most likely a silt Soil F: slightly sensitive and active
2.59. Comment on the validity of the results of Atterberg limits on soils G and H. SOLUTION:
Based on Atterbergs definitions: LL > PL > SL. Soil G violates the definitions because the SL > PL (25 > 20). Soil H violates the definitions because the PL > LL (42 > 38).
Chapter 2
2.60. The following data were obtained from a liquid-limit test on a silty clay. Two plastic-limit determinations had water contents of 23.1% and 23.6%. Determine the LL, PI, the flow index, and the toughness index. The flow index is the slope of the water content versus log of number of blows in the liquid-limit test, and the toughness index is the PI divided by the flow index. SOLUTION:
From the plot below, LL = 42.6 Flow Index = slope = IF = w1 w 2 = 10.6 (from linear regresion of best fit line) N log 2 N1 23.1 + 23.6 = 23.4 2
use average value of PL tests; PL = PI = LL PL = 42.6 23.4 = 19.2 Toughness Index =
PI 19.2 = = 1.81 IF 10.6
50 48 46 Water Content (%) 44 42 40 38 36 34 32 30 10 15 20 30 40 LL = 42.6 Flow index = 10.6
Number of Blows

2.61. Classify the following soils according to the USCS:
Chapter 2
(a) A sample of well-graded gravel with sand has 73% fine to coarse subangular gravel, 25% fine to coarse subangular sand, and 2% fines. The maximum size of the particles is 75 mm. The coefficient of curvature is 2.7, while the uniformity coefficient is 12.4. (b) A dark brown, wet, organic-odor soil has 100% passing the No. 200 sieve. The liquid limit is 32% (not dried, and is 21% when oven dried!) and the plastic index is 21% (not dried). (c) This sand has 61% predominately fine sand, 23% silty fines, and 16% fine subrounded gravel size. The maximum size is 20 mm. The liquid limit is 33% and the plastic limit is 27%. (d) This material has 74% fine to coarse subangular reddish sand and 26% organic and silty dark brown fines. The liquid limit (not dried) is 37% while it is 26% when oven dried. The plastic index (not dried) is 6. (e) Although this soil has only 6% nonplastic silty fines, it has everything else! It has gravel content of 78% fine to coarse subrounded to subangular gravel, and 16% fine to coarse subrounded to subangular sand. The maximum size of the subrounded boulders is 500 mm. The uniformity coefficient is 40, while the coefficient of curvature is only 0.8. (After U.S. Dept. of the Interior, 1990.) SOLUTION: Refer to Table 2.7 and corresponding footnotes
(a) GW Well-graded gravel with sand. (b) OL -- Organic clay (c) SM Silty sand with gravel (d) SM Silty sand with organic fines (e) GP-GM Poorly graded gravel with silt, sand, cobbles, and boulders (or GP-GC)
2.62. Classify the five soils in the preceding question according to the AASHTO method of soil classification. SOLUTION:
(a) A-1-a (b) A-8 (c) A-2-4 (d) A-2-4 or A-8 (e) A-1-a

2.63. The results of a sieve test below give the percentage passing through the sieve. (a) Using a spreadsheet, plot the particle-size distribution. (b) Calculate the uniformity coefficient. (c) Calculate the coefficient of curvature. Sieve Percent Finer by Weight
Chapter 2
No. 4 No. 10 No. 20 No. 40 No. 60 No. 100
71 37 32 23 11 7 4
SOLUTION:
D 9.5 Cu = 60 = = 24; D10 0.39
Cc =
(D30 )
D60 D10
(1.6)2 = 0.69 (9.5)(0.39)
Grain Size Distribution Plot

100 90 80 70 % Passing 60 50 40 30 20 10 0 100.00
2" 1" 1/2" #4 #10 #20 #40 #100 #200 2" 1" 1/2" #4 #10 #20 #40 #100 #200
10.00
1.00 Grain Diameter (mm)
0.10
0.01
Chapter 2
2.64. For the data given below, classify the soils according to the USCS. For each soil, give both the letter symbol and the narrative description. (a) 65% material retained on No. 4 sieve, 32% retained on No. 200 sieve. Cu = 3, Cc = 1. (b) 100% material passed No. 4 sieve, 90% passed No. 200 sieve. LL = 23, PL = 17. (c) 70% material retained on No. 4 sieve, 27% retained on No. 200 sieve. Cu = 5, Cc = 1.5. SOLUTION:
(a) GP Poorly graded gravel with sand (b) CL-ML Silty clay (c) GW Well-graded gravel with sand
2.65. A sample of soil was tested in the laboratory and the following grain size analysis results were obtained. Classify this soil according to the USCS, providing the group symbol for it.
Sieve 1/2" 4 10 20 40 60 100 200 Sieve Opening (mm) 12.7 4.75 2.00 0.85 0.425 0.25 0.15 0.075 Percent Coarser by Weight 30 36 52 64 69 71 77 91 Percent Finer by Weight 70 64 48 36 31 29 23 9
SOLUTION:
(a) PI = LL PL = 26 23 = 3 D 3.9 Cu = 60 = = 49; D10 0.08 Cc =
(D30 )
D60 D10
(0.4)2 = 0.51 well graded (3.9)(0.08)
SW-SM (Well-graded sand with silt)

100 90 80 70 % Passing 60 50 40 30 20 10 0 100.00
2" 1" 1/2" #4 #10 #20 #40 #100 48 70 64 2" 1" 1/2" #4 #10 #20 #40 #100 #200
36 31 29 23
9 #200
10.00
0.10
0.01
Chapter 2
2.66. A minus No. 40 material had a liquidity index of 0.73, a natural water content of 44.5%, and a plasticity index of 24.7. Classify this soil according to the USCS, provide the group symbol. SOLUTION:
w PL PI PI = LL PL; LI = CH (Fat clay) 0.73 = 44.5 PL PL = 26.5 24.7 LL = PI + PL = 24.7 + 26.5 = 51.2
2.67. A sample of soil was tested in the laboratory and the following grain size analysis results were obtained. Classify this soil according to the USCS, providing the group symbol for it.
Sieve No. 4 10 20 40 60 100 200 Sieve Opening (mm) 4.75 2.00 0.85 0.425 0.25 0.15 0.075 Percent Coarser by Weight 37 52 64 69 71 77 90 Percent Finer by Weight 63 48 36 31 29 23 10
SOLUTION:
(a) PI = LL PL = 60 26 = 34 D 4.75 Cu = 60 = = 63; D10 0.075 Cc =
(D30 )
D60 D10
(0.425)2 = 0.51 well graded (4.75)(0.075)
SW-SC (Well-graded sand with clay)

2" 1" 1/2" #4 #10 #20 #40 #100 #200
100 90 80 70 % Passing 60 50 40 30 20 10 0 100.00
63
48
36 31 29 23
10
2"
1"
1/2"
#4
#10
#20
#40
#100
#200
10.00
0.10
0.01
Chapter 2
2.68. A sample of soil was tested in the laboratory and the following grain size analysis results were obtained: Atterberg limits on minus No. 40 material were: LL = 36, PL = 14. Determine the USCS classification symbol for this soil. Extra credit - determine the full AASHTO classification for this soil (symbol plus group index).
Sieve No. 4 10 20 40 60 100 200 Pan Sieve Opening (mm) 4.75 2.00 0.85 0.425 0.25 0.15 0.075 -Percent Finer by Weight 100 100 100 94 82 66 45 0
SOLUTION:
PI = LL PL = 36 14 = 22 GI = (F 35)[0.2 + 0.005(LL 40)] + 0.01(F 15)(PI 10) GI = (45 35)[0.2 + 0.005(36 40)] + 0.01(45 15)(22 10) GI = 5.4
(a) USCS: SC (Clayey Sand) (b) AASHTO: A-6 (5)

100 90 80 % Passing 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0 100.00
2" 1" 1/2" #4 #10 #20 #40 #100 #200 2" 1" 1/2" #4 #10 #20 #40 #100 #200
10.00
0.10
0.01

2.69. Laboratory testing was performed on two soil samples (A and B). (a) Determine the USCS classification symbol for Sample A. (b) Determine the AASHTO classification for Sample B.
Sieve No. 3 inch 1.5 inch 0.75 inch 4 10 20 40 100 200 Liquid Limit Plastic Limit Sieve Opening (mm) 76.2 38.1 19.1 4.75 2.00 0.85 0.425 0.15 0.075 A - Percent Passing 100 98 96 77 -55 -30 18 32 25 B - Percent Passing
Chapter 2
100 96 94 73 -55 52 32
SOLUTION:
(a) PI = LL PL = 32 25 = 7 Cu = D60 1.3 = = 29.5; D10 0.044 Cc =
(D30 )
D60 D10
(0.15)2 = 0.393 poorly graded (1.3)(0.044)
USCS SM (Silty sand with gravel) (b) PI = LL PL = 52 32 = 20; LL 30 = 52 30 = 22 < 32; A 7 5 GI = (F 35)[0.2 + 0.005(LL 40)] + 0.01(F 15)(PI 10) GI = (55 35)[0.2 + 0.005(52 40)] + 0.01(55 15)(20 10) = 9.2 AASHTO A-7-5 (9)
100 90 80 70 % Passing 60
2" 100
1" 98
1/2" 96
#4 100
#10 96
#20 94
#40
#100
#200 Sample B
Sample A
77 73
55
55
50 40 30 20 10 0 100.00
2" 1" 1/2" #4 #10 #20 #40 #100 #200 30
18
10.00
0.10
0.01
Chapter 2
2.70. A sample of soil was tested in the laboratory and the following grain size analysis results were obtained: Atterberg limits on minus No. 40 material were: LL = 62, PL = 20. Determine the USCS letter symbol for this soil.
Sieve No. 4 10 20 40 60 100 200 Pan Sieve Opening (mm) 4.75 2.00 0.85 0.425 0.25 0.15 0.075 -Percent Coarser by Weight 0.0 5.1 10.0 40.7 70.2 84.8 90.5 100.0 Percent Finer by Weight 100.0 94.9 90.0 59.3 29.8 15.2 9.5 0.0
SOLUTION:
PI = LL PL = 62 20 = 42 Cu = D60 0.43 = = 5.7 6; D10 0.075 Cc =
(D30 )
D60 D10
(0.25)2 = 1.9 (0.43)(0.075)
The Cu value is close to 6. Technically, this soil classifies as poorly graded; however, a well graded determination is not unreasonable. USCS SP SC (Poorly graded sand with clay)

100 90 80 70 % Passing 60 50 40 30 20
15.2 29.8 59.3 2" 1" 1/2" #4 100.0 #10 94.9 90.0 #20 #40 #100 #200
10 0 100.00
2" 1" 1/2" #4 #10 #20 #40 #100
9.5
#200
10.00
0.10
0.01
Chapter 2
2.71. A sample of a brown sandy clay was obtained to determine its Atterberg limits and then classify its soil type according to the Unified Soil Classification System. For one of the PL determinations, the wet + dish = 11.53 g and the dry weight + dish = 10.49 g. The dish only weighed 4.15 g. Compute the plastic limit. Another plastic limit was 16.9%. Three determinations of the liquid limit were made. For 17 blows, the water content was 49.8%; for 26 blows, the water content was 47.5%; and for 36 blows, the water content was 46.3%. Evaluate the soil type, indicate the information on a plasticity chart, and give the Unified Soil Classification symbol. SOLUTION:
Mw = 11.53 10.49 = 1.04 g Ms = 10.49 4.15 = 6.34 g w PL = PL = Mw 1.04 100 = 100 = 16.4 Ms 6.34
16.4 + 16.9 = 16.65; From plot below: LL = 48 2 PI = 48 16.7 = 31 PL(avg) = Based on Casagrande's plasticity chart (Fig. 2.13), the soil fines classify as CL USCS CL (Sandy lean clay)
60 58 56 Water Content (%) 54 52 50 48 46 44 42 40 10 15 20 30 40 LL = 48.0 Flow index = 10.8
Number of Blows

2

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Description:

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

2

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

CHAPTER 2

INDEX AND CLASSIFICATION PROPERTIES OF SOILS

emax 0.89 3.25 0.55 0.89

emin 0.21 0.55 0.21 0.42 16.00 1.13

0.9 0.4 1.1 0.9 0.0 0.3

1.4 1.1 1.4 1.2 0.1 0.8

Index and Classification Properties of Soils

Index and Classification Properties of Soils

Index and Classification Properties of Soils

Index and Classification Properties of Soils

Note: The relationship between dry and w is not overly sensitive to s.

Index and Classification Properties of Soils

1 1 1 1 = (1Mg / m3 )(100%) = 16.0% Solving for w: w = w S 3 3 dry s 2.67Mg / m 1.87 Mg / m

b) Solve using phase diagram relationships:

Ms 1649.19 = = 2729.6 kg / m3 Vs 1 0.3958 Ms 1649.19 = = 1649.2 kg / m3 Vt 1

Index and Classification Properties of Soils

1 1 1 1 = (1Mg / m3 )(100%) Solving for w: w = w S = 21.4% dry s 1.72 Mg / m3 2.72 Mg / m3

Index and Classification Properties of Soils

(c) dry = (d) Vw = Vs =

Vv = Vt Vv = 0.56 0.3035 = 0.2565 e= Vv 0.2565 = = 0.8451 = 0.84 Vs 0.3035

(b) From Eq. 2.15: e=

Index and Classification Properties of Soils

Mt 1060 = = 1060 kg m Vt 1.0

buoy = t oil = 1060 920 = 140 kg m

buoy = buoy g = (140)(9.81) = 1373.4 N m Force = buoy (entrapped air) = 1373.4

Index and Classification Properties of Soils

Ms 22.10 = = 0.00822 m3 Gs w (2.69)(1000)

Index and Classification Properties of Soils

= 78.429 = 78.4 pcf

Mw 55.7 100% = = 65.38 = 65.4% Ms 85.2

(0.4536 kg1lb) = 759.288

dry = (759.288)(9.81) = 7448.6 N m = 7.45 kN m

Vw 11.354 100 = 71.5% 100% = 15.869 Vv

Index and Classification Properties of Soils

Index and Classification Properties of Soils

Ms 133.33 = = 49.383 cm3 ; Gs w 2.70 26.667 100% = 87.10% 30.617

Vv = 80 49.383 = 30.617 cm3

Vt = Vs + Vv = 49.383 + 26.667 = 76.053 cm3 V = 80 76.053 = 3.95 cm3

Index and Classification Properties of Soils

(d) Vw = Mw w = (17)(1) = 17 cm3 = 17,000 mm3 S= 17,000 100% = 52.7% 32,238.8

145 = 1.8125 g cm = 1812.5 kg m 80 1 lbm t = 1812.5 kg m = 113.2 ft 16.018

1812.5 = 1600.0 kg m (1 + 0.13281)

1 lbm dry = 1600.0 kg m = 99.9 ft 16.018

Index and Classification Properties of Soils

Index and Classification Properties of Soils

24.0 23.0 22.0 21.0 20.0 19.0 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

Index and Classification Properties of Soils

Index and Classification Properties of Soils

650 = 1326.53 kg m = 1.33 Mg m = 82.8 lbm ft 0.49

(c) Mw = 1090 920 = 170 g Vw = S= 170 = 170 cm3 w

Vw 170 100% = 100 = 68.4% Vv 248.716 1090 = 1.841 g cm = 1841 kg m 592

Index and Classification Properties of Soils

16.018 kg m ' = ( 74.6 lbf ft ) 1lbm ft

2.68 = 1.6962 = 1.70 Mg m 1.58

Index and Classification Properties of Soils

1.404 100% = 58.4% 2.404 1.404 (e) e = = 1.4 1.0 (d) n =

Va = 0.327 0.181 = 0.146 m3

Volume (m3) Vv = 0.33 Va = 0.15 Vw = 0.18 Vs = 0.67 air water solid

Index and Classification Properties of Soils

Vw = S Vv = (0.75)(0.6) = 0.45 m3 Ms = s Vs = (2710)(1.0) = 2710 kg

1 lbm ft dry = (1694 kg m ) 16.018 kg m Mt 3160 t = = = 1975 kg m Vt 1.6

t = (1975) 1 = 123.3 lbm ft 16.018

Index and Classification Properties of Soils