7. Engineering Geology Flashcards
What is slope stability?
The resistance of a slope to failure or landslides.
What is the difference between cohesionless and cohesive soils?
Cohesionless soils (sand, gravel) rely on friction; cohesive soils (clay) have internal bonding.
What is the purpose of soil compaction in construction?
To increase strength and reduce settlement.
What is a landslide?
The sudden downslope movement of rock and soil due to gravity.
What is the role of groundwater in slope failure?
High water content can reduce cohesion and trigger mass wasting.
What is the factor of safety in geotechnical engineering?
The ratio of resisting forces to driving forces in a slope.
What is the main cause of expansive soils?
The presence of clay minerals that swell when wet and shrink when dry.
What is a subsidence hazard?
Ground sinking due to natural or human activity, such as mining or groundwater withdrawal.
What is liquefaction in engineering geology?
The process where saturated soil temporarily loses strength during an earthquake.
What is the role of geotextiles in construction?
They reinforce soil, prevent erosion, and improve drainage.
