IMPORTANCE OF GROUNDWATER IN CIVIL ENGINEERING

Question 1

• water under the ground where the soil is completely filled with water
• moves slowly. 1 mm – 1.6 km per day
• helps keep rivers, lakes and wetlands full of water

Answer 1

Groundwater

Question 2

is the upper surface of the zone of saturation

Answer 2

WATER TABLE

Question 3

– describes the size, shape, arrangement, cementation, and compaction of surface
material

Answer 3

POROSITY

Question 4

whether or not a subsurface structure permits the flow of
water

Answer 4

PERMEABLE/IMPERMEABLE

Question 5

• a layer of rock that is permeable to water flow

Answer 5

AQUIFER

Question 6

is found beneath the Earth’s surface in soil pore spaces and rock formation fractures.

Answer 6

Groundwater

Question 7

Common ground water issues during construction:

Answer 7

✓ Unstable subgrade
✓ Unstable excavation and water seepage

Question 8

Common ground water problems after construction:

Answer 8

✓ Construction delays and cost overrun
✓ Water leaks, wet basements, and mold growth
✓ Cracked and uneven floors
✓ Cracked and uneven walls
✓ Unstable slopes and retaining walls
✓ Delayed movements of foundations