What is the primary function of a well foundation?
A Soil stability
B Deep anchoring
C Water resistance
D Load transfer
Well foundations are used for deep anchoring in areas with weak or waterlogged soil. They transfer loads from the structure to deeper, more stable layers beneath, making them ideal for submerged or wet conditions.
What is a caisson foundation typically used for?
A Waterborne structures
B Sloped sites
C Structural repairs
D Shallow foundations
Caisson foundations are hollow structures used for waterborne construction projects, such as bridges or piers. They are sunk into the water or soft soils to provide a stable base for heavy structures in aquatic environments.
What is the key advantage of using under-reamed piles?
A Reduced depth
B Increased settlement
C Shallow installation
D Enhanced bearing capacity
Under-reamed piles have enlarged bases that increase the surface area in contact with the soil, thus improving their bearing capacity. This is especially useful in weak soils to support heavier structures.
What does a geotechnical investigation assess?
A Foundation material
B Soil moisture
C Bearing capacity
D Soil compaction
A geotechnical investigation assesses the soil’s bearing capacity, which is crucial in determining whether the soil can support the loads of a structure. It involves testing the strength and stability of the soil at the construction site.
How does grouting improve foundation stability?
A Enhances drainage
B Increases soil strength
C Reduces load
D Prevents water flow
Grouting involves injecting a stabilizing substance into the soil, which fills voids and increases its strength and density. This process improves the soil’s load-bearing capacity, helping to stabilize the foundation.
What is the main concern when designing foundations in flood-prone areas?
A Water resistance
B Soil compaction
C Load distribution
D Soil erosion
In flood-prone areas, foundations must be designed to resist water intrusion and damage. Well or caisson foundations are often used to ensure the stability of structures in areas with high water tables or frequent flooding.
What is the purpose of ground improvement techniques in foundation design?
A Reduce water content
B Enhance soil color
C Increase soil volume
D Stabilize weak soil
Ground improvement techniques are used to enhance the properties of weak or soft soil, increasing its stability and bearing capacity. This ensures that the foundation can safely support the weight of the structure built on it.
What is a cofferdam used for in foundation construction?
A Improve soil texture
B Prevent water seepage
C Create a dry working area
D Provide load support
Cofferdams are temporary enclosures used to create a dry area for foundation work in waterlogged environments. They are commonly used in the construction of piers, bridges, and other structures in or near water.
Which foundation type is ideal for repairing damaged structures?
A Shallow foundation
B Foundation repair methods
C Mat foundation
D Pile foundation
Foundation repair methods, such as underpinning, are commonly used for damaged or settling foundations. These methods restore the foundation’s strength and stability without the need for a complete reconstruction.
What is a key concern when designing foundations in liquefaction-prone areas?
A Drainage systems
B Soil texture
C Seismic activity
D Foundation depth
In areas prone to liquefaction, seismic activity can cause saturated soils to lose strength. Foundation designs in such areas need to account for seismic forces, using deep foundations or other techniques to resist liquefaction.
What does foundation repair typically address?
A Structural movement
B Soil consolidation
C Water penetration
D Soil erosion
Foundation repair typically addresses issues like settling, cracking, or tilting caused by soil movement, water damage, or structural load. Repairs restore the stability and level of the foundation, ensuring the safety of the structure.
Which of the following is a method of improving foundation stability in weak soils?
A Mat foundation
B Shallow foundation
C Pile foundation
D Grouting
Grouting is a technique used to stabilize weak soils by injecting a stabilizing agent into the soil to fill voids and improve its load-bearing capacity. It strengthens the foundation’s base, especially in areas with soft soil.
What type of foundation is used for large water tanks?
A Pile foundation
B Raft foundation
C Mat foundation
D Shallow foundation
Raft foundations are used for large water tanks as they distribute the weight of the tank over a large area, reducing the risk of settling in areas with weak or variable soil conditions.
What is the primary function of an under-reamed pile?
A Enhance load-bearing capacity
B Increase depth
C Prevent water seepage
D Improve drainage
Under-reamed piles have an enlarged base, which increases the surface area in contact with the soil. This design improves the pile’s load-bearing capacity, making it effective in areas with soft or unstable soils.
What factor is most critical in designing foundations for buildings near water?
A Soil texture
B Soil compaction
C Water resistance
D Load capacity
Foundations near water must be designed to resist water intrusion and damage. Well foundations or caissons are typically used in such environments, as they are specifically designed to handle water-related challenges and provide stability.