Soil Mechanics
Soil Mechanics
Soil Mechanics
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284
Practice Problems PE Exam
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285
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is A
Step 1:From this problem, the equation of bearing capacity is given as,
1
q = c N + qN + ΥBN
2
Vertical effective stress at the level of the foundation can be given,
q = γD = (16 kN/m )D = 16D
Substitute all known values into the equation of bearing capacity, we can get the
equation shown below
N , N = 5Nɣ =6.5
1
q = c N + qN + ΥBN
2
= (20kN/m )(15) + (16D )(6.5)
+ (0.5)(18kN/m − 9.8kN/m )(6m)(5) = 1500kN/m
286
Practice Problems PE Exam
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287
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is B
Step 1:From this problem, the equation of bearing capacity is given as,
1
q = c N + qN + ΥBN
2
Vertical effective stress at the level of the foundation can be given,
q = γD = (16 kN/m )(4m) = 64kN/m
Substitute all known values into the equation of bearing capacity, we can get the
equation shown below
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Practice Problems PE Exam
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1
q = c N + qN + ΥBN
2
= (20kN/m )(30) + (64kN/m )(18)
+ (0.5)(18kN/m − 9.8kN/m )B(22) = 2100kN/m
289
Practice Problems PE Exam
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290
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is C
Step 1:From this problem, the equation of bearing capacity is given as,
q = 1.3c N + qN + 0.4ΥBN
Vertical effective stress at the level of the foundation can be given,
q = γD = (16 kN/m )(4m) = 64kN/m
Substitute all known values into the equation of bearing capacity, we can get the
equation shown below
q = 1.3c N + qN + 0.4ΥBN
= (1.3)(15kN/m )(58) + (64kN/m )(45)
+ (0.5)(18kN/m − 9.8kN/m )B(70) = 5500kN/m
291
Practice Problems PE Exam
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292
Practice Problems PE Exam
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293
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is D
Step 1:From this problem, the equation of bearing capacity is given as,
1
= + +
2
Vertical effective stress at the level of the foundation can be given,
= = (16 / )(4 ) = 64 /
Substitute all known values into the equation of bearing capacity, we can get the
equation shown below
1
q = c N + qN + ΥBN
2
= (20kN/m )(8.5) + (64kN/m )(2.5)
+ (0.5)(γ − 9.8kN/m )(6m)(1) = 350kN/m
294
Practice Problems PE Exam
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5)A continuous foundation is given in the following diagram. Determine the value
of . Given equation: = + + = / . =
/ = , = / , = .
Friction angle=20.0
295
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is C
Step 1:From this problem, the equation of bearing capacity is given as,
1
q = c N + qN + ΥBN
2
Vertical effective stress at the level of the foundation can be given,
q = γD = γ(4m) = 4γ
Substitute all known values into the equation of bearing capacity, we can get the
equation shown below
1
q = c N + qN + ΥBN
2
20kN
=( )(15) + (4γ)(6.5)
m
+ (0.5)(18kN/m − 9.8kN/m )(6m)(5.0) = 700kN/m
296
Practice Problems PE Exam
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6)A circular foundation is given in the following diagram. It is known that this
foundation subjects three loads as dead and live load, , self-weight load, ,
and soil load, . Assume that the size of this foundation is given as 4m.
= , = , = . Determine the gross allowable
bearing capacity of this foundation.
A) 68kN/m2 B) 72kN/m2 C) 54kN/m2 D) 63kN/m2
297
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is A
Step 1:From this problem, the equation of gross allowable bearing capacity of this
foundation is given as,
W +W +W
q =
A
Step 2: The area of this foundation can be calculated based on the information of
size, B, as,
πB π(4m)
A= = = 12.6m
4 4
~68kN/m2
298
Practice Problems PE Exam
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7)A square foundation is given in the following diagram. It is known that this
foundation subjects three loads as dead and live load, , self-weight load, ,
and soil load, . Assume that the maximum gross allowable bearing capacity of
this foundation is 70kN/m2. = , = , = .
Determine the size of this foundation.
A) 4.0m B) 3.5m C) 3.0m D) 4.5m
299
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is B
Step 1:From this problem, the equation of gross allowable bearing capacity of this
foundation is given as,
W +W +W
q =
A
Step 2: The area of this foundation can be calculated based on the information of
size, B, as,
A=B
300
Practice Problems PE Exam
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8)A triangle foundation is given in the following diagram. The length of each side
of this triangle is the same. It is known that this foundation subjects three loads as
dead and live load, , self-weight load, , and soil load, . Assume that
the maximum gross allowable bearing capacity of this foundation is 70kN/m2.
= , = , = . Determine the size of this
foundation.
301
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is C
Step 1:From this problem, the equation of gross allowable bearing capacity of this
foundation is given as,
W +W +W
q =
A
Step 2: The area of this foundation can be calculated based on the information of
size, B, as,
√3
A= B
4
302
Practice Problems PE Exam
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9)A square foundation is given in the following diagram. It is known that this
foundation subjects three loads as dead and live load, , self-weight load, ,
and soil load, . Assume that the maximum gross allowable bearing capacity of
this foundation is 70kN/m2. = , = . Determine the
maximum self-weight of this foundation if size of it is 4m.
303
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is C
Step 1:From this problem, the equation of gross allowable bearing capacity of this
foundation is given as,
+ +
=
Step 2: The area of this foundation can be calculated based on the information of
size, B, as,
= =( ) =
304
Practice Problems PE Exam
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10)A circular foundation is given in the following diagram. It is known that this
foundation subjects three loads as dead and live load, , self-weight load, ,
and soil load, . Assume that the maximum gross allowable bearing capacity of
this foundation is 70kN/m2. = , = . Determine the
maximum self-weight of this foundation if size of it is 4m.
305
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is B
Step 1:From this problem, the equation of gross allowable bearing capacity of this
foundation is given as,
+W +
=
Step 2: The area of this foundation can be calculated based on the information of
size, B, as,
( )
= = = .
306
Practice Problems PE Exam
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11)A square foundation is given in the following diagram. It is known that this
foundation subjects three loads as dead and live load, , self-weight load, ,
and soil load, . Assume that the maximum gross allowable bearing capacity of
this foundation is 70kN/m2. Dead load is 200kN, = . = .
Determine the maximum live load this foundation can carry if size of it is 4m.
307
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is C
Step 1:From this problem, the equation of gross allowable bearing capacity of this
foundation is given as,
+ +
=
Step 2: The area of this foundation can be calculated based on the information of
size, B, as,
= =( ) =
308
Practice Problems PE Exam
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A) 454kN/m2 B) 479kN/m2
C) 433kN/m2 D) 542kN/m2
309
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is B
Step 1:Vertical effective stress at the level of the foundation can be calculated by,
= =( / )( )= /
Step 2: Net ultimate load can be calculated by subtracting vertical effective stress
from the ultimate load as,
( ) = − = / − / = /
310
Practice Problems PE Exam
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311
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is C
Step 1:Vertical effective stress at the level of the foundation can be calculated by,
= =( / ) =
Step 2: Net ultimate load can be calculated by subtracting vertical effective stress
from the ultimate load as,
( ) = − = / −
312
Practice Problems PE Exam
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A) 2 B) 3 C) 2.5 D) 3.5
313
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is B
Step 1:Vertical effective stress at the level of the foundation can be calculated by,
= =( / )( )= /
Step 2: Net ultimate load can be calculated by subtracting vertical effective stress
from the ultimate load as,
( ) = − = / − / = /
314
Practice Problems PE Exam
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A) 17.5kN/m3 B) 16.4kN/m3
C) 15.2kN/m3 D) 18.6kN/m3
315
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is A
Step 1:Vertical effective stress at the level of the foundation can be calculated by,
= = ( )=
Step 2: Net ultimate load can be calculated by subtracting vertical effective stress
from the ultimate load as,
( ) = − = / −
316
Practice Problems PE Exam
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16.A standard penetration test (SPT) was conducted on a ground to determine the
bearing capacity of soil. It was measured that the number of blows needed for the
sampler to penetrate each 6-inch depth is 12, 14, 16, and 18 for the 1st, 2nd, 3rd,
and 4th 6-inch depth increment. What is the SPT resistance (N-value)?
A) 12 B) 14 C) 16 D) 30
317
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is D
Step 1:
In a SPT, the sum of the number of blows required for the second and third 6-inch
penetration is termed the "standard penetration resistance" or the "N-value".
Step 2:
From the given information, it is known that the number of blows for the 2nd and
3rd penetration of 6-inch depth is 14 and 16, respectively. Therefore, the N-value
is
+ =
318
Practice Problems PE Exam
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17) As shown in the figure below, a clay layer exists between two sandy soil
layers. The underground water level is 1 m below the ground. The second sandy
soil layer contains confined water. At a point A, which is 7 m below the ground
(in the second sandy soil layer), the head of water pressure is 1 m above the
ground. It is known that the unit weight of soil above the water level is 16.5
kN/m3, the saturated unit weight of the first layer of sandy soil below the water
level is 19.2 kN/m3, the saturated unit weight of the second layer of sandy soil is
20.2 kN/m3, the saturated unit weight of the clay soil is 18.4 kN/m3, Determine
the pore water pressure at point B, which is in the middle of the clay layer.
H0=1m
1
H1=2 m
W. L. Sandy soil 1
H2=1m 1sat
H3=2 m 2 B Clay
H5=1 m
H4=2 m 3sat
Sandy soil 2
A
319
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is D
Since the second sandy soil layer contains confined water, and it can be seen that
the head of water pressure at point A exceeds the groundwater level, the clay
layer is an aquiclude layer, which is impermeable. Therefore, the pore water
pressure at point B is zero.
320
Practice Problems PE Exam
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18) As shown in the figure below, a clay layer exists between two sandy soil
layers. The underground water level is 1 m below the ground. The second sandy
soil layer contains confined water. At a point A, which is 7 m below the ground
(in the second sandy soil layer), the head of water pressure is 1 m above the
ground. It is known that the unit weight of soil above the water level is 16.5
kN/m3, the saturated unit weight of the first layer of sandy soil below the water
level is 19.2 kN/m3, the saturated unit weight of the second layer of sandy soil is
20.2 kN/m3, the saturated unit weight of the clay soil is 18.4 kN/m3, Determine
the effective vertical soil pressure at point A.
H0=1m
1
H1=2 m
W. L. Sandy soil 1
H2=1m 1sat
H3=2 m 2 Clay
H4=2 m 3sat
Sandy soil 2
A
321
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is C
Effective stress is equal to the total stress minus pore water pressure
. = − .
Step 1:
The total stress is calculated by = + + + =
( . / )( )+( . / )( )+( . / )( )+
( . / )( )= .
Step 2:
The pore water pressure is calculated by = =( . / )( +
+ + + )= .
Step 3:
The effective stress is
=− = . − . =
322
Practice Problems PE Exam
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19) Determine the active lateral earth pressure on the frictionless wall, as shown
in the figure below, at the base of the wall. The soil behind of the wall is clean
sand with a saturated unit weight of 18.0 kN/m3 and angle of internal friction of
32. Groundwater level is at the surface of the ground.
Groundwater Level
323
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is B
Step 1:
Based on the Rankine theory, the Rankine active earth pressure coefficient
°
= °− = °− = . .
Step 2:
The vertical effective stress at the base of the wall, , is
= − =( − ) = − . ( )= .
Step 3:
The active lateral earth pressure at the base of the wall, , is
= = . × . = .
324
Practice Problems PE Exam
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20) Determine the lateral force (per unit length of wall) on the frictionless
retaining wall, as shown in the figure below. The soil behind of the wall is clean
sand with a saturated unit weight of 20.0 kN/m3 and angle of internal friction of
36. Groundwater level is at the surface of the ground.
Groundwater Level
A) . / B) . /
C) . / D) . /
325
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is C
Step 1:
Based on the Rankine theory, the Rankine active earth pressure coefficient
°
= °− = °− = . .
Step 2:
At the surface of the ground, the vertical effective stress and the pore water
pressure are both zero, = = .
At the base of the wall,
= − =( − ) = − . ( )= .
= = . ( )= .
Step 3:
The active lateral earth pressure at the base of the wall, , is
= = . × . = .
Step 4:
Based on the distributions of lateral earth pressure and pore water pressure,
326
Practice Problems PE Exam
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= ( . + . )( )= . /
where is the lateral force due to soil solids and is the lateral force due to the
pore water.
327
Practice Problems PE Exam
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21) A 10-inch diameter steel pile is driven 60 ft into insensitive clay, which has an
undrained shear strength = / . The groundwater table is at the
ground surface. Assume the entire pile length is effective, the base resistance
= and the adhesive stress = . , determine the allowable bearing
capacity of the pile for a factor of safety = .
328
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is B
Step 1:
The ultimate bearing capacity of the pile due to friction, , is the product of the
adhesive stress, , and the surface area of the shaft.
= . = . =
= = = ( )≅
= ≅ .
Step 2:
The ultimate bearing capacity of the pile due to end bearing, , is the product of
the base resistance, , and the base area.
= = =
( )
= = ≅ =
≅ .
Step 3:
The allowable bearing capacity is
+ . + .
= = ≅ .
329
Practice Problems PE Exam
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22) For an over consolidated clay of 3 m thickness, the following data are given:
average effective pressure = ; initial void ratio = . ; average
increase of pressure in the clay layer ∆ = ; compression index =
. ; recompression index = . ; past maximum consolidation stress
= . Determine the primary consolidation settlement of the clay.
330
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is A
Step 1:
Since the clay is over consolidated, the final
effective pressure needs to be compared with the
past maximum consolidation stress to determine
which compression index should be used. Given the
initial average effective pressure = and
pressure increase ∆ = , the final effective
pressure is = +∆ = + = < = .
Therefore, the clay is in recompression under the increased pressure.
Recompression index = . should be used.
Step 2:
The primary consolidation settlement of the clay is
∆ ( . )
= = = =( )
+ + + .
≅ .
331
Practice Problems PE Exam
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23) As shown in the figure below, a clay layer of thickness 10 m is above a gravel
layer. The groundwater level is at the surface of the clay layer. The clay is over
consolidated and the past maximum consolidation stress is = . If a 3 m
thick fill layer is placed above the clay layer, determine the settlement of the fill
layer due to the primary consolidation of the clay layer.
Ground Surface
H1=3 m W.L. Fill, =20 kN/m3
332
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is A
Step 1:
Before the fill layer is placed, the vertical stress in the clay is due to the self
weight of the soil, which increases linearly with depth. Since the clay is saturated,
the effective vertical stress at center of the clay layer is
= ( − )= ( ) − . =
Step 2:
After the fill layer is placed, the effective vertical stress at center of the clay layer
is
= + = +( ) =
Step 3:
Since the clay is over consolidated, before the effective vertical stress reaches the
past maximum consolidation stress, = , the settlement of the fill layer
is
Continuing:
∆
= =
+
=
+
( . )
=( )
+ .
= .
333
Practice Problems PE Exam
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Step 4:
After the effective vertical stress passes the past maximum consolidation stress
and reaches the final effective vertical stress, the settlement of the fill layer is
∆
= = =
+ +
( . )
=( )
+ .
= .
Step 5:
Therefore, the total settlement of the fill layer is
= + = . + . = .
334
Practice Problems PE Exam
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A) . B) . C) . D) .
335
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is D
Step 1:
The radius of the potential failure plane is
( )
= = ≅ .
( ) ( °)
O
x
H WM
TFF
Step 2:
Let be the angle that bisects the top slope angle, then = °− =
°− °= °. The weight of the sliding soil block is
° °
= = = = ( . )
° ° °
≅ . N/
Step 3:
The centroid of a circular sector is on the line that bisects the sector at the distance
( ) ( . ) ( °)
from the center = = ° ≅ .
°
Step 4:
Use the arc center O as the point of rotation, the mobilized moment is
= ( )= . ( . ) ( °)
= ∙ /
336
Practice Problems PE Exam
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Step 5:
Since the soil has a zero friction angle, the resistance moment along the potential
failure plane is
= = = ( )
× °
=( ) ( . ) ( . )
°
= ∙ /
Step 6:
The factor of safety against slope instability, FS is
∙ /
= = ≅ .
∙ /
337
Practice Problems PE Exam
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A) ° B) ° C) ° D) °
338
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is A
Step 1:
The top width of the sliding wedge is
( ) ( )
= − = −
( ) ( ) ( ) ( °)
Step 2:
The weight of the sliding soil wedge is
( ) ( )
= = = ( . ) − ( )
( ) ( °)
= −
( ) ( °)
Step 3:
Since the length of the slip surface is = / ( ), the shear resistance along
the slip plane is
= + ( ) ( )= / ( )+ ( ) ( )
( )( )
=
( )
+ − ( ) ( °)
( ) ( °)
Step 4:
The mobilized shear force along the slip plane is
= ( )= − ( )
( ) ( °)
339
Practice Problems PE Exam
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Step 5:
The factor of safety against slope instability, FS is
( )( )
+ − ( ) ( °)
( ) ( ) ( °)
=
− ( )
( ) ( °)
=
By trial and error, it is obtained that ≅ °
340
Practice Problems PE Exam
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341
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is C
Step 1:From the diagram, we can see that there are two layers of soil. For each
layer, we need to calculate the unit weight. Equation about unit weight is given
as,
+
=
+
The voids ratio is unknown. Therefore, we need to calculate voids ratio of each
layer first.
To determine the value of void ratio, we need to find volume of voids, , and
volume of solids, . To determine the voids ratio, we can deduce its equation by,
= = = = = =
Therefore, for each layer, the voids ratio can be calculated by,
%
= =( / ) = .
( . / )( %)
%
= =( / ) = .
( . / )( %)
Step 3:For the layer above groundwater level, the unit weight is equal to,
+ . + ( %)( . )
= = ( . / )= . /
+ + .
For the layer below groundwater level, the unit weight is equal to,
+ . +( %)( . )
= = ( . / )= . /
+ + .
342
Practice Problems PE Exam
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343
Practice Problems PE Exam
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344
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is B
Step 1:From the diagram, we can see that there are two layers of soil. For each
layer, we need to calculate the unit weight. Equation about unit weight is given
as,
+
=
+
The voids ratio is unknown. Therefore, we need to calculate voids ratio of each
layer first.
To determine the value of void ratio, we need to find volume of voids, , and
volume of solids, . To determine the voids ratio, we can deduce its equation by,
= = = = = =
Therefore, for each layer, the voids ratio can be calculated by,
%
= = =
( . / )( %)
%
= = =
( . / )( %)
Step 3:For the layer above groundwater level, the unit weight is equal to,
+ . +( %)( )
= = ( . / )
+ +
For the layer below groundwater level, the unit weight is equal to,
345
Practice Problems PE Exam
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+ . +( %)( )
= = ( . / )
+ +
. +( %)( )
= ( . N/ )( )
+
. +( %)( )
+ ( . / )( )− .
+
= /
~14kN/m3
346
Practice Problems PE Exam
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H3=2m
= / A
347
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is A
Step 1:From the diagram, we can see that there are three layers of soil. For the
first layer above groundwater level, the unit weight is equal to,
+ . + ( %)( . )
= = ( . / )= /
+ + .
For the second layer above groundwater level, the unit weight is equal to,
+ . +( %)( . )
= = ( . / )= /
+ + .
For the third layer below groundwater level, the unit weight is equal to,
= /
348
Practice Problems PE Exam
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H1
e = 0.6, S = 2%, Gs = 2.6
H3=2m
= / A
349
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is B
Step 1:From the diagram, we can see that there are three layers of soil. For the
first layer above groundwater level, the unit weight is equal to,
+ . + ( %)( . )
= = ( . / )= /
+ + .
For the second layer above groundwater level, the unit weight is equal to,
+ . +( %)( . )
= = ( . / )= /
+ + .
For the third layer below groundwater level, the unit weight is equal to,
= /
350
Practice Problems PE Exam
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H3
γ = 18 / A
A) 3m B) 4m C) 5m D) 6m
351
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is A
Step 1:From the diagram, we can see that there are three layers of soil. For the
first layer above groundwater level, the unit weight is equal to,
+ . + ( %)( . )
= = ( . / )= /
+ + .
For the second layer above groundwater level, the unit weight is equal to,
+ . +( %)( . )
= = ( . / )= /
+ + .
For the third layer below groundwater level, the unit weight is equal to,
= /
352
Practice Problems PE Exam
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H1=3m γ = 16 /
H2 γ = 17 /
H3=2m
γ = 18 / A
353
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is A
Step 1:From the diagram, we can see that there are three layers of soil. For the
first layer above groundwater level, the unit weight is equal to,
= /
For the second layer above groundwater level, the unit weight is equal to,
= /
For the third layer below groundwater level, the unit weight is equal to,
= /
354
Practice Problems PE Exam
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H1 γ = 16 /
H2=3m γ = 18 /
H3=2m
γ = 18 / A
355
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is D
Step 1:From the diagram, we can see that there are three layers of soil. For the
first layer above groundwater level, the unit weight is equal to,
= /
For the second layer above groundwater level, the unit weight is equal to,
= /
For the third layer below groundwater level, the unit weight is equal to,
= /
356
Practice Problems PE Exam
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H1 γ = 16 /
H2 γ = 18 /
H3 A
γ = 18 /
357
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is C
Step 1:From the diagram, we can see that there are three layers of soil. For the
first layer above groundwater level, the unit weight is equal to,
= /
For the second layer above groundwater level, the unit weight is equal to,
= /
For the third layer below groundwater level, the unit weight is equal to,
= /
358
Practice Problems PE Exam
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H1=3m Water
Gs =2.7, e=0.8
H2=5m
A
359
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is B
Step 1:From the diagram, we can see that there is only one layer of soil
submerged under water. For this layer, the unit weight is equal to,
+ . + .
= = ( . / )= /
+ + .
~46kPa
360
Practice Problems PE Exam
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H1=3m Water
Gs =2.7, e=0.8
H2
A
361
Practice Problems PE Exam
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The Answer is C
Step 1:From the diagram, we can see that there is only one layer of soil
submerged under water. For this layer, the unit weight is equal to,
+ . + .
= = ( . / )= /
+ + .
362
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
H1 Water
Gs =2.7, e=0.8
H2=5m
363
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is D
Step 1:From the diagram, we can see that there is only one layer of soil
submerged under water. For this layer, the unit weight is equal to,
+ . + .
= = ( . / )= /
+ + .
364
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
H1=4m γ = 16kN/m
H2=5m γ = 18kN/m
365
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is B
Step 1:From the diagram, we can see that there are two layers of soil. For the first
layer, the unit weight is equal to,
= /
For the second layer, the unit weight is equal to,
= /
366
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
H1=4m γ = 16kN/m
H2=5m γ = 18kN/m
367
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is C
Step 1:From the diagram, we can see that there are two layers of soil. For the first
layer, the unit weight is equal to,
= /
For the second layer, the unit weight is equal to,
= /
368
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
H1=4m γ = 16kN/m
H2=5m γ = 18kN/m
369
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is A
Step 1:From the diagram, we can see that there are two layers of soil. For the first
layer, the unit weight is equal to,
= /
For the second layer, the unit weight is equal to,
= /
Step 2:Before changing the value of H2, the effective stress at point A can be then
calculated as,
= + =( / )( )+( / )( )=
After reducing the value of H2, the effective stress at point A can be calculated as,
= + + = +( / )( )+( / )( )
=
Solve equation above, =
~45kPa
370
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
H1=4m γ = 16kN/m
H2=5m γ
A) 16.8kN/m3 B) 18.4kN/m3
C) 17.2kN/m3 D) 19.6kN/m3
371
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is C
Step 1:From the diagram, we can see that there are two layers of soil. For the first
layer, the unit weight is equal to,
= /
For the second layer, the unit weight is unknown,
Solve the equation above, we can find the effective density of second layers
as,
= . /
~17.2kN/m3
372
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
H1=6m γ
H2=4m γ = 18kN/m
A) 15.6kN/m3 B) 12.6kN/m3
C) 14.4kN/m3 D) 13.8kN/m3
373
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is D
Step 1:From the diagram, we can see that there are two layers of soil. For the first
layer, the unit weight is unknown,
Solve the equation above, we can find the effective density of second layers
as,
= . /
~13.8kN/m3
374
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
42) Information of a soil is shown in the following diagram. Assume that the
surcharge is 40kPa acting at the top of soil as shown in the diagram. Determine
the effective pressure at point A.
375
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is A
Step 1:From the diagram, we can see that there is only one layer of soil. For this
layer, the unit weight is equal to,
+
=
+
( %)( . )
, = = = %, therefore,
.
+ . +( %)( . )
= = ( . / )= /
+ + .
376
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
43) Information of a soil is shown in the following diagram. Assume that the
surcharge is 40kPa acting at the top of soil as shown in the diagram. If the
effective pressure at point A is 150kPa. Determine the water content of this soil.
377
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is C
Step 1:From the diagram, we can see that there is only one layer of soil. The
effective pressure at point A can be calculated by,
= + = + ( )=
Solving this equation, we can know the value of density of this soil as,
= /
Step 2: According to equations of the density of this soil can be described as,
+
=
+
Therefore,
+ . +
= = ( . / )= /
+ +
= %
According to the following equation water content of soil is,
( %)( . )
= = = . %
.
~13.3%
378
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
44) Information of a soil is shown in the following diagram. Assume that the
value of surcharge is unkown, which acting at the top of soil as shown in the
diagram. If the effective pressure at point A is 170kPa, determine the value of this
surcharge.
379
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is B
Step 1:From the diagram, we can see that there is only one layer of soil. For this
layer, the unit weight is equal to,
+
=
+
( %)( . )
, = = = %, therefore,
.
+ . +( %)( . )
= = ( . / )= . /
+ + .
380
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
45) Information of a soil is shown in the following diagram. Assume that the
value of surcharge is 25kPa, which acting at the top of soil as shown in the
diagram. If the effective pressure at point A is 140kPa, determine the value of H1.
381
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is A
Step 1:From the diagram, we can see that there is only one layer of soil. For this
layer, the unit weight is equal to,
+
=
+
( %)( . )
, = = = %, therefore,
.
+ . +( %)( . )
= = ( . / )= /
+ + .
382
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
46) Information of a soil is shown in the following diagram. Assume that the
value of surcharge is 35kPa, which acting at the top of soil as shown in the
diagram. If the effective pressure at point A is 160kPa, determine the value of
specific gravity of this soil.
383
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is D
Step 1:From the diagram, we can see that there is only one layer of soil. The
effective pressure at point A can be calculated by,
= + = + ( )=
Solving this equation, we can know the value of density of this soil as,
= . /
Step 2: According to equations of the density of this soil can be described as,
+
=
+
Therefore,
+ +( %)( )
= = ( . / )= . /
+ +
= . ~2.8
384
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
47) Assume that there are two soils shown in the following diagram. For the left
one, there is no surcharge. For the right one, a surcharge acting on the top of soil
but the value is unknown. Assume that effective pressure at point A is the same as
that at point B. Determine the value of this surcharge.
H2=6m = /
H1=8m γ = 18kN/m
B
A
385
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is C
Step 1:From the diagram, we can see that there is only one layer of soil on both
right and left soil. The effective pressure at point A can be calculated by,
= =( / )( )=
The effective pressure at point B can be calculated by,
= + = +( / )( )=( + )
Step 2: According to the problem, effective pressure at point A is the same as that
at point B, so we got
4 =( + )
= ~25kPa
386
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
48) Assume that there are two soils shown in the following diagram. For the left
one, there is no surcharge. For the right one, a surcharge acting on the top of soil
and the value is 30kPa. Assume that effective pressure at point A is the same as
that at point B. Determine the value of H2.
H2 = /
H1=8m γ = 18kN/m
B
A
387
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is C
Step 1:From the diagram, we can see that there is only one layer of soil on both
right and left soil. The effective pressure at point A can be calculated by,
= =( / )( )=
The effective pressure at point B can be calculated by,
= + = +( / ) =( + )
Step 2: According to the problem, effective pressure at point A is the same as that
at point B, so we got
=( + )
= . ~6.7m
388
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
49) Assume that there are two soils shown in the following diagram. For the left
one, there is no surcharge. For the right one, a surcharge acting on the top of soil
and the value is 40kPa. Assume that effective pressure at point A is the same as
that at point B. Effective pressure at point A is 90kPa. Determine the ratio
between H1 and H2.
H2 = /
H1 γ = 18kN/m
B
A
389
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is A
Step 1:From the diagram, we can see that there is only one layer of soil on both
right and left soil. The effective pressure at point A can be calculated by,
= =( / ) =( )
The effective pressure at point B can be calculated by,
= + = +( / ) =( + )
Step 2: According to the problem, effective pressure at point A is the same as that
at point B, so we got
( ) =( + ) =
=
=
Therefore, the ratio between H1 and H2 is 5:3~5:3
390
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
50) Assume that there are two soils shown in the following diagram. For the left
one, there is no surcharge. For the right one, a surcharge acting on the top of soil
and the value is 40kPa. Assume that effective pressure at point A is the same as
that at point B. Determine the densiy of the left soil, .
H2=2m = /
H1=4m γ
B
A
391
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is B
Step 1:From the diagram, we can see that there is only one layer of soil on both
right and left soil. The effective pressure at point A can be calculated by,
= = ( )=( )
The effective pressure at point B can be calculated by,
= + = +( / )( )=
Step 2: According to the problem, effective pressure at point A is the same as that
at point B, so we got
( ) =
= . /
~19kN/m3
392
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
51) Assume that there are two soils shown in the following diagram. For the left
one, there is no surcharge. For the right one, a surcharge acting on the top of soil
and the value is 40kPa. Determine the effective pressure ratio between A and B.
H2=4m = /
H1=4m = 18 /
B
A
393
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is C
Step 1:From the diagram, we can see that there is only one layer of soil on both
right and left soil. The effective pressure at point A can be calculated by,
= =( / )( )=
The effective pressure at point B can be calculated by,
= + = +( / )( )=
~2:3
394
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
52) There is a frictionless wall shown in the following figure. The information is
provded in this figure. Assume that q=20kN/m. Calculate the value of H so that
the moment at point A is zero.
= 28 /
q = 50 /
G = 2.6 = 0.9 P1 P2 H
395
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is B
Step 1:From the diagram, we can see that there are two horizontal forces acting
towards the wall. We need to calculate these forces first. From the problem, the
friction angle of this soil can be found by,
/
= = =
/
Rankine active earth pressure coefficient can be calculated by,
= − = − =
Step 3:The lateral forces due to soil and pore water can be calculated respectively
as,
= ( − ) = ( / − . / )
=( . )
= = ( . / ) =( . )
= + =( . ) +( . ) = ( / )
396
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
= .
397
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
53) There is a frictionless wall shown in the following figure. The information is
provded in this figure. Assume that H1 is 5m and H2 is 3m. Calculate the value of
resultant force towards this wall.
G = 2.7 = 0.8
= G = 2.6 = 0.9
= 30
P1 P2 H1
P4 P3
H2
398
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is A
Step 1:From the diagram, we can see that there are two parts of soil acting
towards wall. We need to calculate forces from both parts first. From the problem,
Rankine active earth pressure coefficient for right part can be calculated by,
= − = − =
Rankine passive earth pressure coefficient for left part can be calculated by,
= + = + =
Step 3:The lateral forces for right part can be calculated by,
= ( − ) = ( / − . / )( ) =
= = ( . / )( ) = .
The lateral forces for the left part can be calculated by,
= ( − ) = ( )( / − . / )( )
= .
= = ( . / )( ) = .
Step 4: The resultant force for this wall can be calculated by,
= + − − = . + . − − .
= .
399
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
~12kN
400
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
54) There is a frictionless wall shown in the following figure. The information is
provded in this figure. Assume that H1 is 3m. H is 6m. F = 40kN. If moment at
point A in the left figure is the same as that in the right figure, calculate the value
of H2.
F
= 30
H1
1
H
2 H2
3 4
A) 3m B) 4m C) 5m D) 6m
401
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is A
= − = − =
= = ( / )( ) = .
= + = ( )+ = +
= = ( / )( ) =
= = .
= ( − ) = ( / − . / )
= = ( . / )( )
402
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
=( . )( + )+( )( . ) + 1.
+ . =( )( )
403
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
55) Two figures show two frictionless wall as below. Information about each wall
is given. Assume that H1=4m and H2=5m, H3=1m, S=20kN/m. Assume that
moment at point A for left figure and right figure is the same. Determine the
density of soil in the right figure, .
= 16 /
= 30 = H2
1 H1 3
2
H3
A A
404
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is A
= − = − =
= = ( / )( )= .
= = ( )=
= = ( / )( ) = .
= = ( )= .
= − = ( ) − ( . / )( )
= . − .
= = ( )= .
405
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
H1 q G = 2.6 = 0.9
= 30
H2
1 2
406
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is A
= − = − =
= ( − ) = ( / − . / )( )
= . ( )
= = ( . / )( ) = . ( )
407
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
57) There is a frictionless wall shown in the following figure. The information is
provded in this figure. Assume that H1 is 5m and H2 is 3m. Calculate the value of
moment at point A.
= /
M
= = 18 /
= 30
P1 P2 H1
P4 P3
H2
A) 80kN-m B) 70kN-m
C) 75kN-m D) 65kN-m
408
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is A
Step 1:From the diagram, we can see that there are two parts of soil acting towards
wall. We need to calculate forces from both parts first. From the problem, Rankine
active earth pressure coefficient for right part can be calculated by,
= − = − =
Rankine passive earth pressure coefficient for left part can be calculated by,
= + = + =
Step 2:The lateral forces for right part can be calculated by,
= ( − ) = ( / − . / )( ) =
= = ( . / )( ) = .
= = =
The lateral forces for the left part can be calculated by,
= ( − ) = ( )( / − . / )( ) = .
= = ( . / )( ) = .
= = =
=( . )( )+( . )( )−( )
−( . ) =− −
~80kN-m
409
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
58) There is a frictionless wall shown in the following figure. The information is
provded in this figure. Assume that H1 is 5m. Calculate the value of H2 so that
resultant force towards this wall is equal to zero.
= /
= = 18 /
= 30
P1 P2 H1
P4 P3
H2
410
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is A
Step 1:From the diagram, we can see that there are two parts of soil acting
towards wall. We need to calculate forces from both parts first. From the problem,
Rankine active earth pressure coefficient for right part can be calculated by,
= − = − =
Rankine passive earth pressure coefficient for left part can be calculated by,
= + = + =
Step 2:The lateral forces for right part can be calculated by,
= ( − ) = ( / − . / )( ) =
= = ( . / )( ) = .
The lateral forces for the left part can be calculated by,
= ( − ) = ( )( / − . / ) = .
= = ( . / ) = .
Step 3: The resultant force for this wall can be calculated by,
= + − − = . + . − − . =
Solve this equation,
= .
~2.8m
411
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
59) There is a frictionless wall shown in the following figure. The information is
provded in this figure. Assume that H1 is 5m and H2 is 3m. Calculate the value of
so that moment at point A is equal to zero.
M
= = 18 /
= 30
P1 P2 H1
P4 P3
H2
A) 22kN/m3 B) 20kN/m3
C) 24kN/m3 D) 26kN/m3
412
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is D
Step 1:From the diagram, we can see that there are two parts of soil acting
towards wall. We need to calculate forces from both parts first. From the problem,
Rankine active earth pressure coefficient for right part can be calculated by,
= − = − =
Rankine passive earth pressure coefficient for left part can be calculated by,
= + = + =
Step 2:The lateral forces for right part can be calculated by,
= ( − ) = ( / − . / )( ) =
= = ( . / )( ) = .
= = =
The lateral forces for the left part can be calculated by,
= ( − ) = ( )( − . / )( )
= = ( . / )( ) = .
= = =
= ( )( − . / )( ) ( )+( . )( )
−( ) −( . ) =
413
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
60) There is a frictionless wall shown in the following figure. The information is
provded in this figure. Assume that H1 is 3m and H2 is 3m. H is 6m. If moment at
point A in the left figure is the same as that in the right figure, calculate the value
of F.
F
= 17 /
= 30 H1
1
H
2 H2
3 4
A = / A
414
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is C
= − = − =
= γ = ( / )( ) = .
= + = ( )+( )=
= = ( / )( ) =
= = ( )= .
= ( − ) = ( / − . / )( ) = . k
= = ( )=
= = ( . / )( ) = .
= = ( )=
415
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
61) There is a frictionless wall shown in the following figure. The information is
provded in this figure. Assume that H1 is 3m. H is 6m. F = 40kN. If moment at
point A in the left figure is the same as that in the right figure, calculate the value
of H2.
F
= 17 /
= 30 H1
1
H
2 H2
3 4
A = / A
A) 3m B) 4m C) 5m D) 6m
416
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is A
Step 1:Rankine active earth pressure coefficient can be calculated by,
= − = − =
= = ( / )( ) = .
= + = ( )+ = +
= = ( / )( ) =
= = .
1
= ( − ) = ( / − . / )
= = ( . / )( )
=( . )( + )+( )( . )+ .
+ . =( )( )
417
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
62) There is a frictionless wall shown in the following figure. The information is
provded in this figure. Assume that H2 is 3m. H is 6m. F = 40kN. If moment at
point A in the left figure is the same as that in the right figure, calculate the value
of H1.
F
= 17 /
= 30 H1
1
H
2 H2
3 4
A = / A
A) 3m B) 4m C) 5m D) 6m
418
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is A
= − = − =
= = ( / )
= + = ( )+
= = ( / )( ) =
= = ( )= .
= ( − ) = ( / − . / )( ) = .
= = ( )=
= = ( . / )( ) = .
= = ( )=
=( . ) ( )+ +( )( . )+( .8 )( )
+( . )( )=( )( )
Solve this equation,
= ~3m
419
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
63) There is a frictionless wall shown in the following figure. The information is
provded in this figure. Assume that H1 is 3m and H2 is 3m. H is 6m. F = 40kN. If
moment at point A in the left figure is the same as that in the right figure,
calculate the value of .
F
= 17 /
H1
1
H
2 H2
3 4
A = / A
420
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is D
= = ( / )( ) = .
= + = ( )+ =
= = ( )= .
= (γ − ) = ( / − . / )( ) = .
= = ( )=
= = ( . / )( ) = .
= = ( )=
= − =
421
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
= ~300
422
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
64) There is a frictionless wall shown in the following figure. The information is
provded in this figure. Assume that H1 is 3m and H2 is 3m. H is 6m. F = 40kN. If
moment at point A in the left figure is the same as that in the right figure,
calculate the value of .
F
= 30 H1
1
H
2 H2
3 4
A = / A
423
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is B
= − = − =
= = ( ) = .
= + = ( )+ =
=K = ( ) =
= = ( )= .
= ( − ) = ( / − . / )( ) = .
= = ( )=
= = ( . / )( ) = .
= = ( )=
424
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
65) There is a frictionless wall shown in the following figure. The information is
provded in this figure. Assume that H1 is 3m and H2 is 3m. H is 6m. F = 40kN. If
moment at point A in the left figure is the same as that in the right figure,
calculate the value of .
F
= 17 /
= 30 H1
1
H
2 H2
3 4
A A
425
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is C
= − = − =
= = ( / )( ) = .
= + = ( )+ =
= = ( / )( ) =
= = ( )= .
= ( − ) = ( − . / )( )
= = ( )=
= = ( .8 / )( ) = .
= = ( )=
426
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
66) Two figures show two frictionless wall as below. Information about each wall
is given. Assume that H1=4m and H2=5m. S=20kN/m. Assume that moment at
point A for left figure and right figure is the same. Determine the density of soil in
the right figure, .
= 16 /
= 30 = H2
1 H1 3
2
A A
427
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is A
= − = − =
= = ( / )( )= .
= = ( )=
= = ( / )( ) = .
= = ( )= .
= = ( ) = .
= = ( ) = .7
428
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
67) Two figures show two frictionless wall as below. Information about each wall
is given. Assume that H1=4m and H2=5m. S=20kN/m. Assume that moment at
point A for left figure and right figure is the same and the moment is equal to
100kN-m. Determine the friction angle, .
S
= /
= 16 /
1 H2
H1 3
2
A A
429
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is B
= = ( )=
= = ( / )( ) =
= = ( )= .
= = ( / )( ) = .
= = ( )= .
= − = .
430
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
68) Two figures show two frictionless wall as below. Information about each wall
is given. Assume that H2=5m. S=20kN/m. Assume that moment at point A for left
figure and right figure is the same. Determine the value of H1.
S
= /
= 16 /
= 30 = H2
1 H1 3
2
A A
A) 3m B) 4m C) 5m D) 2m
431
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is B
= − = − =
= = ( / ) = .
= = (16 / )( ) = 2.7
1
=
3
1 1 1
= K = (15 / )(5 ) = 62.5
2 2 3
1 1
= = (5 ) = 1.7
3 3
432
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
69) A point A in a sandy soil is 5 m below the ground. The underground water
level is 2 m below the ground. It is known that the in situ total unit weight of the
soil above the water level is 14.6 kN/m3, and the saturated unit weight of soil
below the water level is 17.8 kN/m3. Determine the effective vertical soil pressure
at point A.
(in situ)
H1=2 m
W. L.
H2=3 m
sat (below WL)
433
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is C
Step 1:
Effective stress is equal to the total stress minus pore water pressure
u. = − u.
Step 2:
The total stress is calculated by = γH + γ H = (14.6 kN/m )(2 m) +
(17.8 kN/m )(3 m) = 82.6 kPa
Step 3:
The pore water pressure u is calculated byu = γ H = (9.8 kN/m )(3 m) =
29.4 kPa
Step 4:
The effective stress is
u = − u = 82.6 kPa − 29.4 kPa = 53.2 kPa
434
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
435
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is A
Based on theprincipal of effective stress, effective stress is equal to total stress
minus pore water pressure. It is the most important principle in soil mechanics.
Deformations of soils are a function of effective stresses not total stresses.
(A) is correct.
(C) is incorrect.Pore water pressure is isotropic and only can cause volumetric
changes of soil solids, which is nearly incompressible. Pore water pressure does
not cause displacement of soil solids, or deformation of soils.
436
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
71) Apoint A is 5 m below the ground. The underground water level is 2 m below
the ground. There are two deposits of sandy soil at the site. The first deposit of
soil has a depth of 3 m, and a total unit weight (above the water level)of 13.2
kN/m3, a saturated unit weight of 16.5 kN/m3. The second deposit of soil has a
saturated unit weight of 17.6 kN/m3. Determine the effective vertical soil pressure
at point A.
1
H1=2 m
W. L. Sandy soil 1
H2=1m 1sat
H3=2 m 2sat
Sandy soil 2
A
437
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is B
Effective stress is equal to the total stress minus pore water pressure
u. = − u.
Step 1:
The total stress is calculated by = γ H + γ H +γ H = (13.2 kN/
m )(2 m) + (16.5 kN/m )(1 m) + (17.6 kN/m )(2 m) = 78.1 kPa
Step 2:
The pore water pressure u is calculated byu = γ H = (9.8 kN/m )(1 m +
2 m) = 29.4 kPa
Step 3:
The effective stress is
u = − u = 78.1 kPa − 29.4 kPa = 48.7 kPa
438
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
73) The groundwater level falls at a site due to massive pumping. During such a
process, which of the following consequences may occur for the soil above the
pumping point?
A) Effective vertical stress in the soil increases, and ground level rises
B) Effective vertical stress in the soil decreases, and ground level falls
C) Effective vertical stress in the soil does not change, and ground level falls
D) Effective vertical stress in the soil increases, and ground level falls
439
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is D
Pumping of groundwater leads to water flow through soil, which exerts a
frictional drag on the soil particles resulting in head losses. Downward seepage
increases the resultant effective stress, while upward seepage decreases the
resultant effective stress. For the scenario of the problem, water in the soil above
the pumping point seeps downward, which increases the effective vertical stress.
With the effective vertical stress increasing, the vertical strain of the soil also
increases, which leads to a reduction of the ground level.
(A) is incorrect.The ground level should fall.
(D) is correct.
440
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
74) Apoint A in a sandy soil is 8 m below the ground. The underground water
level is 3 m below the ground. It is known that the specific gavity of soil solids is
2.7, the water content of soil is 20% above the water level, and 35% below the
water content. Determine the effective vertical soil pressure at point A.
Gs=2.7, S=0.5
H1=3 m =20%
W. L.
=35%
H2=5 m
441
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is D
Step 1:
Step 2:
The unit weight of soil above the water level is
G + Se 2.7 + 0.5 × 1.08 kN kN
γ = γ = × 9.8 ≅ 15.27
1+e 1 + 1.08 m m
Step 3:
The void ratio of the soil below the water level is
G ω 2.7 × 35%
e= = = 0.945
S 1.0
The unit weight of soil below the water level is
G +e 2.7 + 0.945 kN kN
γ = γ = × 9.8 ≅ 18.37
1+e 1 + 0.945 m m
Step 4:
Effective stress is equal to the total stress minus pore water pressure
u. = − u.
The total stress is calculated by = γ H + γ H = (15.27 kN/m )(3 m) +
(18.37 kN/m )(5 m) = 137.66 kPa
442
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
Step 5:
The pore water pressure u is calculated byu = γ H = (9.8 kN/m )(5 m) =
49 kPa
Step 6:
The effective stress is
u = − u = 137.66 kPa − 49 kPa = 88.66 kPa
443
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
75. A 3 m high smooth retaining wall extends from the top of bedrock to the
ground surface. The soil behind of the retaining wall is homogeneous and
cohesionless, has an in-situ total unit weight of 16.8 kN/m3, and angle of
internal friction of 30. Based on the Rankine theory, what is the total active
resultant lateral earth force per unit length of retaining wall?
Retaining wall
444
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is A
P136 NCEES Ref Manual edition 8 V2
Step 1:
Based on the Rankine theory, the Rankine active earth pressure coefficient
°
= °− = °− = .
Step 2:
The active lateral earth pressure distribution is linear. The active lateral earth
pressure at any depth, h, below the ground surface is calculated by = =
.
Step 3:
The total active lateral earth force per unit length of retaining wall is
= = ( . )( . / )( ) = . /
445
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
76. A 3 m high smooth retaining wall extends from the top of bedrock to the
ground surface. The soil behind of the retaining wall is homogeneous and
cohesionless, with an in-situ total unit weight of 16.8 kN/m3, and angle of
internal friction of 30. A lateral forace F is applied on the opposite side of the
wall. Based on the Rankine theory, what is the total passive resultant lateral
earth force per unit length of retaining wall?
Retaining wall
H1=1.5 m
F
(in situ)=16.8 kN/m3
=30
H2=1.5 m
446
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is A
Step 1:
Based on the Rankine theory, the Rankine passive earth pressure coefficient
°
= °+ = °+ =
Step 2:
The passive lateral earth pressure distribution is linear. The passive lateral earth
pressure at any depth, h, below the ground surface is calculated by = =
.
Step 3:
The total active lateral earth force per unit length of retaining wall is
= = ( )( . / )( ) = . /
447
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
77. A5 m high smooth retaining wall extends from the top of bedrock to the
ground surface. The soil behind of the retaining wall is homogeneous and
cohesionless, has an in-situ total unit weight of 16.8 kN/m3, and angle of
internal friction of 30. Groundwater level is 2 m below the surface of the soil,
as shown in the figure below. The saturated unit weight of the soil is 18.2
kN/m3. Based on the Rankine theory, what is the total active resultant lateral
earth force per unit length of retaining wall?
Retaining wall
=30
H3=3 m sat=18.2 kN/m3
448
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is C
Step 1:
Based on the Rankine theory, the Rankine active earth pressure coefficient
°
= °− = °− = .
Step 2:
The total vertical stress at the groundwater level is calculated by =
=( . / )( )= . . Since the pore water pressure at the
groundwater level is 0, the effective vertical stress = − =
. − = . .
Step 3:
At the bottom level of the retaining wall, the total vertical stress is calculated
by
= + =( . / )( )+( . / )( )=
. .
The pore water pressure is calculated by = =
( . / )( )= . .
The effective vertical stress = − = . −
. = . .
The distribution of effective vertical stress along depth, , is then
shown in the plot below:
Step 4:
The active lateral earth pressure at any depth, h, below the ground surface is
calculated by = .
449
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
Step 5:
The total active lateral earth force per unit length of retaining wall is
= ( + ) + ( + )
=( . ) ( + . )( )
+ ( . + . )( ) = . /
450
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
78. A 3 m high smooth retaining wall extends from the top of bedrock to the
ground surface. The wall is connnected to the bedrock by a frictionless hinge. The
soil behind of the retaining wall is homogeneous and cohesionless, has an in-situ
total unit weight of 16.8 kN/m3, and angle of internal friction of 30. A lateral
forced is applied at the opposite side of the wall, at a height of H1=1.5 m from the
top of bedrock. Based on Rankine theory, what is the minimum force per unit
length of retaining wall required to resist the overturning moment?
Retaining wall
451
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is A
Step 1:
Based on the Rankine theory, the Rankine active earth pressure coefficient
°
= °− = °− = .
Step 2:
The active lateral earth pressure distribution is linear. The active lateral
earth pressure at any depth, h, below the ground surface is calculated by
= = .
Step 3:
The total active lateral earth force per unit length of retaining wall is
= = ( . )( . / )( ) = . /
= = .
Step 4:
H=3 m F
H1
1/3 H
452
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
. ( )
= = = . /
.
453
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
79. A 7 m high smooth retaining wall extends from the top of bedrock to the
ground surface. The soil behind of the retaining wall is homogeneous and
cohesionless, has an in-situ total unit weight of 15.4 kN/m3 and angle of internal
friction of 35. Groundwater level is 3 m below the surface of the soil, as shown
in the figure below. The saturated unit weight of the soil is 17.2 kN/m3. A
resisting force F is applied on the opposite side of the wall at the top of the wall so
that the soil behind the wall reaches the passive earth pressure condition. Based
on the Rankine theory, what is the total passive resultant lateral earth force per
unit length of retaining wall?
Retaining wall
F
=35
H2=4 m sat=17.2 kN/m3
454
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is D
Step 1:
Based on the Rankine theory, the Rankinepassive earth pressure coefficient
°
= °+ = °+ = . .
Step 2:
The total vertical stress at the groundwater level is calculated by =
=( . / )( )= . . Since the pore water pressure at the
groundwater level is 0, the effective vertical stress = − =
. − = . .
Step 3:
At the bottom level of the retaining wall, the total vertical stress is
= + =( . / )( )+( . /
)( )= .
The pore water pressure is calculated
by = =( . / )( )=
. .
The effective vertical stress = −
= − . = . .
The distribution of effective vertical stress
along depth, , is then shown in theplot:
455
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
Step 4:
The passive lateral earth pressure at any depth, h, below the ground
surface is calculated by = .
Step 5:
The total passive lateral earth force per unit length of retaining wall is
= ( + ) + ( + )
=( . ) ( + . )( )
+ ( . + . )( ) = /
456
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
80. A continuous footing three feet wide is founded 4 ft below the ground
surface in a clay soil for which = / , = / , and
= °. There is no groundwater at the site. Determine the ultimate bearing
capacity according to Terzaghi’s theory.
A) , B) ,
C) , D) ,
457
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is C
Step 1:
According to Terzaghi’s theory, the ultimate bearing capacity, , for a
concentrically loaded continuous footing of width B can be expressed as:
= + + .
in which c is the cohesion of the soil below the base of the footing; is the
vertical effective stress at the elevation of the footing base; B is the footing width;
is the unit weight of the soil below the footing base; , , and are bearing
capacity factors, which can be found in the NCEES reference manual.
Step 2:
From the given information, it is known that = = / , =
/ , = , = , and = °. From the figure on Page 138 of
the NCEES reference manual, it can be found that = . , = . , and
= . .
458
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
Step 3:
= + + .
= ( . )+ ( )( . )
+ . ( ) ( . )= ,
459
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
A) B) C) D)
460
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is A
Step 1:
From the figure on Page 138 of the NCEES reference manual, it can be found that
when = , the friction angle is 36.
Step2:
For a friction angle of 36, the bearing capacity ratio for the vertical effective
stress at the elevation of the foundation base, , is 38.
461
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
82. A continuous footing is founded 5 ft below the ground surface in a clay for
which = / , = / , and = °. There is no
groundwater at the site. If the factor of safety FS is to be at least 3, recommend an
allowable bearing capacity according to Terzaghi’s theory.
A) , B) ,
C) , D) ,
462
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is B
Step 1:
According to Terzaghi’s theory, the ultimate bearing capacity, , for a
concentrically loaded continuous footing of width B can be expressed as:
= + + .
in which c is the cohesion of the soil below the base of the footing; is the
vertical effective stress at the elevation of the footing base; B is the footing width;
is the unit weight of the soil below the footing base; , , and are bearing
capacity factors, which can be found in the NCEES reference manual.
Step 2:
From the given information, it is known that = = / , =
/ , = , and = °. From the figure on Page 138 of the
NCEES reference manual, it can be found that = , = , and = .
Step 3:
= + + . = ( )+ ( )( ) +
= ,
463
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
Step 4:
For a factor of safety FS=3, the allowable bearing capacity , is
,
= = =
464
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
A) . B) . C) . D) .
465
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is D
Step 1:
Based on Terzaghi’s theory, the ultimate bearing capacity, , for a
concentrically loaded continuous footing of width B can be expressed as:
= + + .
in which c is the cohesion of the soil below the base of the footing; is the
vertical effective stress at the elevation of the footing base; B is the footing width;
is the unit weight of the soil below the footing base; , , and are bearing
capacity factors, which can be found in the NCEES reference manual.
Step 2:
From the given information, it is known that = = / , = , =
, = , and = °. From the figure on Page 138 of the NCEES
reference manual, it can be found that = , and = .
466
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
Step 3:
= + + .
= + ( )( )+ . ( ) ( )
= ,
Step 4:
For a factor of safety FS=3, the allowable bearing capacity , is
,
= = =
Step 5:
For a lineal foot of foundation, the base area is
= ( )=( )( )=
For a factor of safety FS=3, the allowable bearing force per lineal foot of
foundation is
,
= = ( )= , =
/
= .
467
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
A) . B) . C) . D) .
468
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is C
Step 1:
Since the sand is cohesionless and the footing rests directly on the ground, c=0,
and H=0. Therefore, = . + + . = . .
Step 2:
For = °, from the figure on Page 138 of the NCEES reference manual, it can
be found that = .
Step 3:
The pressure on the footing should be less than the allowable bearing capacity of
the sand.
.
≤ =
( )( )
≥ = ≅ .
. . ( / )( )
469
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
470
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is A
P 135 C2 NCEES Ref Manual edition 8 V2
When the term deep foundations is used, it invariably means pile foundations. A
pile is a long structural member installed in the ground to transfer loads to soils at
some significant depths.
(A) is correct.
(B) is incorrect.Mats are shallow foundations.
(C) is incorrect.Both wall footings and mats are shallow foundations.
(D) is incorrect. Spread footings and raft foundations are both shallow
foundations. Raft foundations are the same as mat foundations.
471
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
86. Through which is almost all the structural load on a friction pile
transferred to the soil?
472
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is B
Friction pile is one that transfers almost all the structural load to the soil by skin
friction along a substantial length of the pile.
(A) is incorrect.A pile that transfers almost all the structural load to the soil at the
bottom end of the pile is named an end bearing or point bearing pile.
(B) is correct.
(C) is incorrect, since A is incorrect.
(D) is incorrect, since B is correct.
473
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
87. A strip wall footing of width 4 ft is embedded 3 ft below the ground surface in
a clayed sand for which = / , = / , and = °.
The groundwater level 30 ft below the footing base. Use a factor of safety
of 2 and assume the wall footing is sufficiently long, determine the allowable
bearing capacity of the wall footing.
A) , B) ,
C) , D) ,
474
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is B
Step 1:
The ultimate bearing capacity, , for a strip footing of width B is:
= + + .
in which c is the cohesion of the soil; is the effective unit weight of soil; is
the depth of footing below ground surface; B is the footing width; , , and
are bearing capacity factors for cohesion, depth, and unit weight, respectively.
Step 2:
From the given information, it is known that = / , = /
, = , and = °. From the figure on Page 138 of the NCEES
reference manual, it can be found that = . , = . , and = . .
Step 3:
= + + .
= ( . )+ ( )( . )
+ . ( )( )( . ) = ,
475
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
Step 4:
For a factor of safety = , the allowable bearing capacity , is
,
= = = ,
476
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
88. What type of shallow foundation should be used when the allowable soil
pressure is low or where an array of columns and/or walls are so close that
individual footings would overlap or nearly touch each other?
477
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is D
when the allowable soil pressure is low or where an array of columns and/or walls
are so close that individual footings would overlap or nearly touch each other, a
mat or raft foundation is required.
(A) is incorrect.A strip footing, also known as continuous footing, is used for a
load-bearing wall, or for a row of columns which are closely spaced. It cannot be
used for an array of columns.
478
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
89. A 9-inch diameter concrete pile is driven 50 ft into insensitive clay, which
has an in-situ unit weight of / , and an undrained shear strength
= / . The groundwater table is at the ground surface. Assume the
entire pile length is effective and the adhesive stress = . , determine the
bearing capacity of the pile due to friction.
479
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is B
Step 1:
The bearing capacity of the pile due to friction is provided by skin friction,
, over the embedded length of the pile, which is the product of the
adhesive stress, , and the surface area of the shaft.
Step 2:
= . = . =
Step 3:
= = = ( )≅
= ≅ .
480
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
90. Two figures show two frictionless wall as below. Information about each wall
is given. Assume that H1=4m and H2=5m. Assume that moment at point A for
left figure and right figure is the same. Determine the value of S.
S
= /
= 16 /
= 30 = H2
1 H1 3
2
A A
481
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is A
1 1
= = (4 ) = 1.3
3 3
1 1 1
= K = (15 / )(5 ) = 62.5
2 2 3
1 1
= = (5 ) = 1.7
3 3
482
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
91. A retaining wall is given in the following diagram. It is known that H1=5m
and H2=3m. Determine the value of q in order to make resultant force of retaining
wall zero.
H1 q γ = 18 /
= 30
H2
1 2
483
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is C
484
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
H1 q γ = 18 /
= 30
H2
1 2
485
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is B
486
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
94. A retaining wall is given in the following diagram. It is known H1=5m and
H2=3m. q = 10kN/m. Calculate the moment at point A.
H1 q γ = 18 /
= 30
H2
1 2
487
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is D
488
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
H1 q γ = 18 /
= 30
H2
1 2
489
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is A
490
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
491
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is B
Step 1:Settlement for soil in the range of virgin compression can be calculated
based on the equation shown below,
H p + ∆p
∆H = C log
1+e p
From this problem, we can know everything except for the initial voids ratio. We
need to calculate it first.
492
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
493
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is B
Step 1:Settlement for soil in the range of virgin compression can be calculated
based on the equation shown below,
H p + ∆p
∆H = C log
1+e p
From this problem, we can know everything except for the initial voids ratio. We
need to calculate it first.
494
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
495
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is C
Step 1:Settlement for soil in the range of virgin compression can be calculated
based on the equation shown below,
H p + ∆p
∆H = C log
1+e p
From this problem, we can know everything except for the initial voids ratio. We
can calculate it by,
H p + ∆p 3m 300kN/m + 200kN/m
C log = (0.5)log = 30cm
1+e p 1+e 300kN/m
e = 0.11
496
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
497
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is A
Step 1:Settlement for soil in the range of virgin compression can be calculated
based on the equation shown below,
H p + ∆p
∆H = C log
1+e p
From this problem, we can know everything except for the CC and voids ratio. We
can calculate voids ratio by,
n 0.5
e= = =1
1 − n 1 − 0.5
498
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
499
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is D
Step 1:Settlement for soil in the range of virgin compression can be calculated
based on the equation shown below,
H p + ∆p
∆H = C log
1+e p
From this problem, we can know everything except for the ∆pand voids ratio. We
can calculate voids ratio by,
n 0.5
e= = =1
1 − n 1 − 0.5
500
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
101. A 5m soil is given. CR is given as 0.1 and Cc is 0.6. If the initial effective
pressure p0 is equal to 300kN/m2 , ∆p is equal to 200kN/m2, and pc is 400kN/m2,
determine the settlement of this soil when the initial porosity of soil is 0.44.
501
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is C
Step 1:Settlement for soil can be calculated based on the equation shown below,
H p p + ∆p
∆H = C log + C log
1+e p p
From this problem, we can know everything except for the initial voids ratio. We
need to calculate it first.
Step 2:The initial porosity is given as 0.44. Therefore, voids ratio can be
calculated by,
n 0.44
e= = = 0.8
1 − n 1 − 0.44
Therefore, we can know the settlement of this soil by,
5m 400kN/m 500kN/m
∆H = (0.1)log + (0.6)log = 19.6cm
1 + 0.8 300kN/m 400kN/m
~20cm
502
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
102. A 5m soil is given. CR is given as 0.1 and CC is 0.6. If the initial effective
pressure p0 is equal to 300kN/m2 , ∆p is equal to 200kN/m2, and pc is 400kN/m2.
In order to know the initial voids ratio, 100cm3 initial soil is selected and we find
that there is 45cm3 voids. Determine the settlement of this soil.
503
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is D
Step 1:Settlement for soil can be calculated based on the equation shown below,
H p p + ∆p
∆H = C log + C log
1+e p p
From this problem, we can know everything except for the initial voids ratio. We
need to calculate it first.
504
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
103. A 3m soil is given. CR is given as 0.1 and CC is 0.6. If the initial effective
pressure p0 is equal to 300kN/m2 , ∆p is equal to 200kN/m2, and pc is 400kN/m2.
In order to know the initial voids ratio, 100cm3 initial soil is selected and we find
that there is 75cm3 soil solids. Determine the settlement of this soil.
505
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is B
Step 1:Settlement for soil can be calculated based on the equation shown below,
H p p + ∆p
∆H = C log + C log
1+e p p
From this problem, we can know everything except for the initial voids ratio. We
need to calculate it first.
506
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
104. A 3m soil is givin. CR is given as 0.1 and Cc is 0.6. If the initial effective
pressure p0 is equal to 300kN/m2, ∆p is equal to 200kN/m2, and pc is 400kN/m2. It
is known that it has 11cm settlement. What is the porosity of this soil for the
initial state?
507
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is B
Step 1:Settlement for soil can be calculated based on the equation shown below,
H p p + ∆p
∆H = C log + C log
1+e p p
From this problem, we can know everything except for the initial voids ratio. We
can calculate it by,
H p p + ∆p
C log + C log
1+e p p
3m 400kN/m 500kN/m
= (0.1)log + (0.6)log = 11cm
1+e 300kN/m 400kN/m
e=1
508
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
509
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is C
Step 1:Settlement for soil can be calculated based on the equation shown below,
H p p + ∆p
∆H = C log + C log
1+e p p
From this problem, we can know everything except for the initial voids ratio and
CC. We can calculate voids ratio by,
n 0.5
e= = =1
1 − n 1 − 0.5
510
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
511
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is B
Step 1:Settlement for soil can be calculated based on the equation shown below,
H p p + ∆p
∆H = C log + C log
1+e p p
From this problem, we can know everything except for the initial voids ratio and
CR. We can calculate voids ratio by,
n 0.5
e= = =1
1 − n 1 − 0.5
512
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
107. A 3m soil is givin. CR is given as 0.1 and Cc is 0.6. If the initial effective
pressure p0 is equal to 300kN/m2 and pc is 400kN/m2. It is known that it has 11cm
settlement when adding pressure ∆p. If the initial porosity is 0.5, then what is the
value of ∆p?
513
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is B
Step 1:Settlement for soil can be calculated based on the equation shown below,
H p p + ∆p
∆H = C log + C log
1+e p p
From this problem, we can know everything except for the initial voids ratio and
∆p. We can calculate voids ratio by,
n 0.5
e= = =1
1 − n 1 − 0.5
514
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
108. A 3m soil is givin. CR is given as 0.1 and Cc is 0.6. If the initial effective
pressure p0 is equal to 300kN/m2. It is known that it has 11cm settlement when
adding pressure ∆p. If the voids occupy 50% of total volume at initial state, then
what is the value of ∆p?
515
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is A
Step 1:Settlement for soil can be calculated based on the equation shown below,
H p p + ∆p
∆H = C log + C log
1+e p p
From this problem, we can know everything except for the initial voids ratio and
∆p. We can calculate voids ratio by,
V 50%V
e= = =1
V 50%V
516
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
109. A 3m soil is givin. It is known that the initial porosity is 0.5 and after
ultimate consolidation settlement it become to 0.45. Determine the ultiate
consolidation settlement in this soil layer.
517
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is C
518
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
110. A 3m soil is givin. It is known that the initial voids ratio is 1 and after
ultimate consolidation settlement it is unknown. Determine the final porosity of
this soil if the ultimate consolidation settlement is 0.5m.
519
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is B
Step 2:We can calculate the final porosity of this soil by,
.
n= = = 0.41~0.4
.
520
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
111. A 3m soil is givin. It is known that the final voids ratio is 0.7 after ultimate
consolidation settlement but the initial voids ratio is unknown. Determine the
initial porosity of this soil if the ultimate consolidation settlement is 0.5m.
A) 0.5 B) 0.4 C) 0.3 D) 0.2
521
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is A
Step 2:We can calculate the initial porosity of this soil by,
= = = 0.5~0.5
522
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
112. A soil layer is givin. The thickness of this soil layer is unknown. It is known
that the final voids ratio is 0.7 after ultimate consolidation settlement and the
initial porosity is 0.5. Determine the thickness of this soil layer if the ultimate
consolidation settlement is 0.5m.
A) 2m B) 3m C) 4m D) 5m
523
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is B
Step 2:We can calculate the thickness of this soil layer by,
− 1 − 0.7
= = = 0.5
1+ 1 + 0.7
= 3 ~3m
524
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
113. A 3m soil is givin. It is known that the initial porosity is 0.5 and after
ultimate consolidation settlement it become to 0.45. Determine the approximate
settlement in this soil layer if the average degree of consolidation is 70%.
A) 0.34m B) 0.23m C) 0.18m D) 0.36m
525
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is B
526
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
114. A 3m soil is givin. It is known that the initial voids ratio is 1 and after
ultimate consolidation settlement it is unknown. Determine the final porosity of
this soil if the approximate settlement is 0.2m and average degree of consolidation
is 50%.
527
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is D
528
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
115. A 3m soil is givin. It is known that the final voids ratio is 0.3 after ultimate
consolidation settlement but the initial voids ratio is unknown. Determine the
initial porosity of this soil if the approximate settlement is 0.2m and average
degree of consolidation is 50%.
529
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is A
530
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
531
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is C
Step 3:To get the value of water content, we can substitute all known value into
the equation above and we have,
w 40%
e=γ = (100pcf) = 0.8
γ S (62.5pccf)(80%)
Step 4: Based on the equation above, we can calculate the settlement as,
∆ /
∆H = C log = (0.1)log = 0.066m = 66mm~66mm
. /
532
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
533
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is A
Step 3:To get the value of water content, we can substitute all known value into
the equation above and we have,
40%
= = =
(62.5 )(80%) 125
Step 4: Based on the equation above, we can calculate the dry density as,
+∆ 3 500 /
∆ = = (0.1) = 0.066
1+ 1+ 200 /
125
= 66
= 100 ~100pcf
534
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
118. A 5m soil is given. CR is given as 0.1 and Cc is 0.6. If the initial effective
pressure p0 is equal to 300kN/m2 , ∆p is equal to 200kN/m2, and pc is 400kN/m2,
determine the settlement of this soil when the initial dry density of soil is 100pcf,
the water content is 36% and the degree of saturation is 54%.
A) 17cm B) 20cm C) 23cm D) 15cm
535
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is A
Step 1:Settlement for soil can be calculated based on the equation shown below,
H p p + ∆p
∆H = C log + C log
1+e p p
From this problem, we can know everything except for the initial voids ratio. We
need to calculate it first.
Step 3:To get the value of water content, we can substitute all known value into
the equation above and we have,
36%
= = (100 ) = 1.1.
(62.5 )(54%)
Step 4: Based on the equation above, we can calculate the settlement as,
5 400 / 500 /
∆ = (0.1) + (0.6) = 16.8
1 + 1.1 300 / 400 /
~17cm
536
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
537
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is A
Step 1:Settlement for soil can be calculated based on the equation shown below,
H p p + ∆p
∆H = C log + C log
1+e p p
From this problem, we can know everything except for the initial voids ratio and
CR. We need to calculate it first.
Step 3:To get the value of water content, we can substitute all known value into
the equation above and we have,
w 38%
e=γ = (110pcf) =1
γ S (62.5pccf)(66%)
538
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
120. A 3m soil is givin. CR is given as 0.1 and Cc is 0.6. If the initial effective
pressure p0 is equal to 300kN/m2 and pc is 400kN/m2. It is known that it has 11cm
settlement when adding pressure ∆p. If the initial dry density of soil is 110pcf, the
water content is 38% and the degree of saturation is 66%, then what is the value
of ∆p?
539
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is B
Step 1:Settlement for soil can be calculated based on the equation shown below,
H p p + ∆p
∆H = C log + C log
1+e p p
From this problem, we can know everything except for the initial voids ratio and
∆p. We need to calculate it first.
Step 3:To get the value of water content, we can substitute all known value into
the equation above and we have,
38%
= = (110 ) =1
(62.5 )(66%)
540
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
121. A highway embankment constructed with a sandy clay soil has a height
H = 20 ft. The clay soil has a cohesion c = 600 lbf/ft , and friction angle
ϕ = 20°. It is determined that the embankment slope will fail along a plane that
has an angle α = 15° from the horizontal surface, as shown in the figure below.
The weight of the sliding soil wedge is 42,000 lbf per foot long of the
embankment. Determine the available shearing resistance along the slip plane per
per foot long of the embankment.
541
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is C
Step 1:
The mobilized shear force along the slip plane is T = cL + W cos(α )tan(ϕ).
Step 2:
From the given information, it is known W = 42,000 lbf/ft, α = 15°, ϕ = 20°,
c = 600 lbf/ft , and H = 20 ft. Since
L = H/sin(α )
T = cL + W cos(α )tan(ϕ) = cH/sin(α ) + W cos(α )tan(ϕ)
lbf
600 (20 ft) lbf
= ft + 42,000 cos(15°)tan(20°)
sin(15°) ft
lbf
≅ 61,130
ft
542
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
543
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is D
Step 1:
( ) ( )
The top width of the sliding wedge is w = − = − =
( ) ( ) ( °) ( °)
12.70 m
Step 2:
The weight of the sliding soil wedge is
1 kN
W = γA = γ wH = 19 (0.5)(12.70 m)(8 m) = 965.2 kN/m
2 m
Step 3:
Since the length of the slip surface is L = H/sin(α ), the shear resistance along
the slip plane is
T = cL + W cos(α )tan(ϕ) = cH/sin(α ) + W cos(α )tan(ϕ)
(60 kPa)(8 m)
= + (965.2 kN/m)cos(15°)tan(30°)
sin(15°)
≅ 2393 kN/m
Step 4:
The mobilized shear force along the slip plane is
T = W sin(α ) = (965.2 kN/m)sin(15°) = 250 kN/m
Step 5:
The factor of safety against slope instability, FS is
2393 kN
T m
FS = = ≅ 9.6
T kN
250
m
544
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
123. A sandy soil is stockpiled on a ground. The soil is cohesionless with a unit
weight γ = 20 kN/m , and friction angle ϕ = 35°. What is the maximum slope
angle θ the sand cone can reach?
545
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is D
When the slope angle θ of the sand cone reaches its maximum, the sand on the
slope surface is in equilibrium, T =T .
WM
Step 1:
The mobilized shear force along the slope surface is
T = W sin(θ)
The shearing resistance along the slope surface is
T = cL + W cos(α )tan(ϕ) = 0 ∙ L + W cos(θ)tan(ϕ)
Step 2:
When T = T , we have
W sin(θ) = W cos(θ)tan(ϕ)
( )
Therefore, tan(ϕ) = ( )
= tan(θ). So
θ = ϕ = 35°
546
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
(I) (II)
(III) (IV)
A) I B) II C) III D) None
547
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is D
(A) is incorrect.Slope failure in (I) is a type of rotational failure (toe slide) that is
common in homogeneous fine-grained soils.
(C) is incorrect.Slope failure in (III) is a type of rotational failure (slope slide) that
is common in homogeneous fine-grained soils.
(D) is correct. Slope failure in (IV) is a type of translational slide that is common
in coarse-grained soils.
548
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
549
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is D
Step 1:
The top width of the sliding wedge is
H H (10 m) (10 m)
w= − = −
tan(α ) tan(θ) tan(25°) tan(θ)
Step 2:
The weight of the sliding soil wedge is
1 kN (10 m) (10 m)
W = γA = γ wH = 19 (0.5) − (10 m)
2 m tan(25°) tan(θ)
kN 1 1
= 950 −
m tan(25°) tan(θ)
Step 3:
T = cL + W cos(α )tan(ϕ)
= (10 kPa)(23.66 m)
kN 1 1
+ 950 − cos(25°)tan(20°)
m tan(25°) tan(θ)
kN kN 1 1
= 236.6 + 313.38 −
m m tan(25°) tan(θ)
Step 4:
The mobilized shear force along the slip plane is
kN 1 1
T = W sin(α ) = 950 − sin(25°)
m tan(25°) tan(θ)
550
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
Step 5:
The factor of safety against slope instability, FS is
kN kN 1 1
T 236.6 + 313.38 −
m m tan(25°) tan(θ)
FS = = =2
T kN 1 1
950 − sin(25°)
m tan(25°) tan(θ)
It is obtained that
1 1
− = 0.4833
tan(25°) tan(θ)
tan(θ) = 0.602θ ≅ 31°
551
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
126. A highway is to be built in a region where soft soil exists in the ground,
which will cause excessive settlement of the highway embankment. Which of the
following methods may be used to reduce the settlement of the embankment
during the service life of the highway?
(I) Precompression of the soft soil
(II) Installation of vertical drains in the soil under a surcharge load
(III) Stabilization of the soil using admixtures
(IV) Injection of grout into the ground
552
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is D
Soft soils are soils that have high porosity and water content, and under load, will
produce large settlements over a very long time span. Soft soils can be improved
by a variety of methods, such as precompression, vertical drains, in-situ
densification, grouting, stabilization using admixtures, and reinforcement with
geosynthetics.
(A) is incorrect.(III) and (IV) are also correct. Stabilization of soil using
admixtures can increase the strength and stiffness of the soil. Injection of
cementitious or chemical grout into the ground may also increase the strength and
stiffness of the soil.
(B) is incorrect.(I), (II) and (IV) are also correct. Precompression of the soft soil
using a surcharge will consolidate the soil to a level that the future consolidation
of the soil under highway loads is limited to an acceptable value.
(D) is correct.
553
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
p=200 kPa
Ground Surface
Gravel
Rock
q=100 kPa
Ground Surface
Gravel
Rock
554
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is B
The surcharge load pre-consolidates the clay soil. After the surcharge is removed,
the settlement of the ground recovers to some extent. When the embankment
pressure is applied, the clay is recompressed, following the reversed strain-
pressure path of settlement recovery, to the previously reached maximum
settlement, and then follow the normal consolidation curve to a final settlement.
Step 1:
In this problem, since the embankment pressure q is less than the preconsolidation
pressure p, the compression of soil under embankment pressure is in the range of
recompression. Therefore, the recompression index C should be used for
calculation.
After the surcharge load is removed and before the embankment is constructed,
the effective vertical stress at center of the clay layer is
1 1 kN
σ = Hγ = (10 m) 19 = 95 kPa
2 2 m
Step 3:
After the embankment is constructed, the effective vertical stress at center of the
clay layer is
σ = σ + q = 95 kPa + 100 kPa = 195 kPa
Step 4:
The settlement of the embankment is
σ
∆e C log
σ
S = Hε = H =H
1+e 1+e
195 kPa
(0.14)log
= (10 m) 95 kPa
1 + 1.1
= 0.208 m
555
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
128. A field density test was performed on compacted fill in accordance with
ASTM D 1556 Standard Test Method for Density and Unit Weight of Soil in
Place by the Sand-Cone Method. The following is a summary of the test data:
Weight of wet soil extracted from the sand cone hole 6.438 lb
Weight of sand needed to fill the hole
(funnel correction already applied) 4.125 lb
The bulk density of the sand used in the sand cone apparatus 82.4 pcf
556
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answers is C
557
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
129. A temporary slope will be excavated to the dimensions shown in the figure.
Laboratory testing has yielded the geotechnical parameters shown in the chart.
The safety factor for the failure surface shown is most nearly:
CLAY
= °
=
=
∅=
POTENTIAL FALURE SURFACE
BEDROCK
558
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is C
D = 20
D/H = 2
β = 30 Stability number = 0.172 = =
×
C ≅ 413
C 750
FS = = = 1.82
C 413
559
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
130. During a standard penetration test (SPT), unusually low blow counts are
encountered in a foundation expected to be medium-dense to dense sand. This is
an indication that the following condition may be present:
A) The sampler drive shoe is badly damaged or worn due to too many drivings to
refusal.
B) Cobbles are encountered.
C) The sampler drive shoe is plugged.
D) The groundwater in the borehole is much lower than in situ conditions
immediately outside the bore hole.
560
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answers is D
561
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
131. The excavation shown in the figure is required to repair a broken fiber optic
line. The excavation is to be open for 18 hours. A train will pass the excavation
area each hour. As the competent person on-site, you must determine which of the
following statements is most correct:
( ) =
/ :
( ) = .
562
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answers is D
563
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
132. A soil layer is givin. The thickness of this soil layer is unknown. It is known
that the final voids ratio is 0.73 after ultimate consolidation settlement and the
initial porosity is 0.5. Determine the thickness of this soil layer if the approximate
settlement is 0.2m and average degree of consolidation is 50%.
A) 2m B) 3m C) 4m D) 5m
564
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is B
Step 1:First we need to calculate the initial voids ratio. It can be obtained by,
.
= = =
− − .
565
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
133. A retaining wall is shown in the following figure. The soil profile is also
shown in the figure. According to Rankine active state, calculate the moment the
soil produces toward retaining wall.
=4m = / =
Water
=4m = . / = /
Fig. 19
566
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is B
= − = − =
Active
2
5 3 4
Step 3:Notice that area 4 and area 5 are the same with different direction forces
toward retaining wall, there is no need to calculate them.
Lateral force fore Area 1,
= = ( )( / )( ) = .
Location to base, = + = ( )+ = .
= = ( / )( )( )= .
Location to base, = = ( )=
= ( − )
567
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
= ( / − . / )( ) = .
Location to base, = = ( )= .
568
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
134. There is a frictionless wall shown in the following figure. Assume that the
soil will slip along the dash line and the angle is 600. Calculate the active lateral
force per unit length.
= /
H=5 m
Fig. 20
A) 73.3 kN B) 83.3 kN C) 68.8 kN D) 85.6 kN
569
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is B
= ( − )= ( − )=
( ) = = = ( )= .
= ( ) = ( . )( )= .
570
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
135. There is a frictionless wall shown in the following figure. Assume that the
retaining wall push the soil to slip along the dash line and the angle is 300.
Calculate the passive lateral force per unit length.
A) 700 kN B) 820 kN C) 680 kN D) 750 kN
H=5 m
= /
Fig. 21
571
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is B
( ) = = = ( )=
= ( ) = ( )( )=
572
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
136. There is a frictionless wall shown in the following figure. Assume that the
soil will slip along the dash line and the angle is 600. Calculate moment soil
produce to retaining wall.
= /
H=6 m
Fig. 22
A) 328 kN-m B) 264 kN-m
C) 196 kN-m D) 236 kN-m
573
Practice Problems PE Exam
____________________________________________________________
The Answer is B
= ( − )= ( − )=
( ) = = = ( )=
= ( ) = ( )( )=
Location to base, = = ( )=
574