Solved Problems: Problem (1) : (Ordinary Method of Slices)

Soil Mechanics Assist. Prof. Dr. Rafi' M. S.
SOLVED PROBLEMS
Problem (1): (Ordinary method of slices)

For the slope shown in the figure below, find the safety factor against sliding for the trial slip
surface AC. Use the ordinary method of slices.
Problem (1): Ordinary method of slices.

Solution:
The sliding wedge is divided into 7 slices.

The weight (W) of each slice and its tangential and normal components are calculated and
tabulated in the following table.
Slice W 𝜶𝒏 𝑾𝒏 𝒔𝒊𝒏 𝜶𝒏 𝑾𝒏 𝒄𝒐𝒔 𝜶𝒏

No. (kN/m) (deg.) 𝒔𝒊𝒏 𝜶𝒏 𝒄𝒐𝒔 𝜶𝒏 ∆𝑳𝒏 (𝒎) (kN/m) (kN/m)
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8)
1 22.4 70 0.94 0.342 2.924 21.1 6.7

2 294.4 54 0.81 0.588 6.803 238.5 173.1
3 435.2 38 0.616 0.788 5.076 268.1 342.94
4 435.2 24 0.407 0.914 4.376 177.1 397.8
5 390.4 12 0.208 0.978 4.09 81.2 381.8
6 268.8 0 0 1 4 0 268.8
7 66.58 -8 -0.139 0.990 3.232 -9.25 65.9
∑ 30.501 m 776.75 kN/m 1637.04 kN/m
c L + ∑ W cos α tan ∅ c (∑ col. 6) + (∑ col. 8) tan ∅

F. S. = =
∑ W sin α ∑ col. 7
20 (30.501)+(1637.04) (tan 20)
F. S. = = 1.55
776.75
Problem (2): (Fellenius method)

Using the Fellenius method of slices, determine the factor of safety, in terms of effective
stress, of the slope shown in the figure below for the given failure surface
a. using peak strength parameters 𝑐′ =10 kN/m2 and ∅′ = 29o and
b. using critical-state parameter ∅′cv = 31o. The unit weight of the soil both above and
below the water table is 20 kN/m3.
Problem (2): Fellenius method of slices.

Solution:
(a) The factor of safety is given by Eq.:
𝑐 ′ 𝐿𝑎 + 𝑡𝑎𝑛∅′ ∑(𝑊 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝛼 − 𝑢𝑙)

𝐹=
∑ 𝑊 𝑠𝑖𝑛 𝛼
The soil mass is divided into slices 1.5m wide. The weight (W) of each slice is given by:
𝑊 = 𝛾 𝑏 ℎ = (20)(1.5)(h) = 30h kN/m
The height h for each slice is set off below the centre of the base, and the normal and
tangential components (h.cos𝛼) and (h.sin𝛼), respectively, are determined graphically, as
shown in the figure above. Then
𝑊 cos𝛼 = 30h cos𝛼

𝑊 sin𝛼 = 30h sin𝛼
2
The pore water pressure at the centre of each slice base is taken to be 𝛾𝑤 𝑧𝑤 , where 𝑧𝑤 is the
vertical distance of the centre point below the water table (as shown in the figure). This
procedure slightly overestimates the pore water pressure which strictly should be 𝛾𝑤 𝑧𝑒 , where
𝑧𝑒 is the vertical distance below the point of intersection of the water table and the
equipotential line through the centre of the slice base. The error involved is on the safe side.
The arc length (La) is calculated as 14.35 m. The results are given in the table below.
∑ 𝑊 cos𝛼 = 30(17.5) = 525 kN/m

∑ 𝑊 sin𝛼 = 30(45) = 254 kN/m
∑(𝑊 cos𝛼 − 𝑢𝑙) = 525 − 132 = 393 kN/m
Slice No. h cos 𝛂 (m) h sin 𝛂 (m) u (kN/m2) l (m) ul (kN/m)
1 0.75 −0.15 5.9 1.55 9.1

2 1.80 −0.10 11.8 1.50 17.7
3 2.70 0.40 16.2 1.55 25.1
4 3.25 1.00 18.1 1.60 29.0
5 3.45 1.75 17.1 1.70 29.1
6 3.10 2.35 11.3 1.95 22.0
7 1.90 2.25 0 2.35 0
8 0.55 0.95 0 2.15 0
17.50 8.45 14.35 132.0
𝑐 ′ 𝐿𝑎 + 𝑡𝑎𝑛∅′ ∑(𝑊 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝛼 − 𝑢𝑙) (10)(14.35) + (0.554)(393)

𝐹= ∑ 𝑊 𝑠𝑖𝑛 𝛼
= = 1.42
254
(b) In terms of critical-state strength

𝑡𝑎𝑛31 (393)
𝐹= = 0.93 < 1.0 therefore the slope is unsafe.
254
Problem (3): (Bishop’s simplified method)

Using Bishop’s simplified method, determine the short term stability of the slope shown in the
figure below. Given that the slope was initially submerged with water and that the water level
has now been drawn down to the level of the top of the sand.
3
Solution:
Problem (3): Bishop’s simplified method.
Initially the centre and radius of the failure plane must be assumed. The calculations presented below
are for one such assumption. However, to find the factor of safety of the slope, a number of centres
and radii will be needed to find the combination that gives the minimum factor of safety.
Problem calculations for slice 6:
∆xi = 1.0 m measured from the figure

xi = 2.5 m measured from the figure
θi = sin-1 (2.5/5.83) = 25.4o or measure from the figure. Note that θ is positive for slices
giving positive overturning moments
Wi = A γ = (1)(2)(15) + (1)(0.268)(20) = 35.36 kN/m

Wi sin θi = 35.36 sin (25.4) = 15.17 kN/m
ui = 𝛾𝜔 Z = (9.81)(0.268) = 2.628 kN/m
ci∆xi + (Wi – ui∆xi) tan ∅𝑖 = (0)(1) + [35.36 − (2.628)(1)] tan 30o = 18.9 kN/m Note that it is ∅ the
friction angle, not θ in this calculation
Now assume a factor of safety, say F = 3
Mi = cos θi (1 + tan θi tan ∅i /F) = cos(25.4) [1+ tan (25.4) tan(30)/3] = 0.986
or read Mi off the chart for θ = 25.4 and (tan ∅ /F = tan(30)/3 = 0.19
The results for all the slices can be similarly evaluated and tabulated as shown below:
Slice 𝛉 ∆x u W Wsin𝛉 c∆x T* = c∆x + (W M T*/M

No. (o) (m) (kPa) (kN/m) (kN/m) (kN/m) − u∆x) tan ∅
(kN/m)
1 -25.4 1.0 2.628 5.357 -2.30 - 1.58 0.821 1.92

2 -14.9 1.0 6.227 12.70 -3.77 - 3.74 0.917 4.08
3 -4.93 1.0 7.942 23.69 -2.03 - 9.09 0.980 9.28
4 4.93 1.0 7.942 38.69 3.317 - 17.75 1.013 17.52
5 14.89 1.0 6.227 42.70 10.98 - 21.06 1.016 20.73
6 25.4 1.0 2.628 35.36 15.17 - 18.9 0.986 19.17
7 36.87 1.0 - 24.96 14.98 25.0 25 0.800 31.26
8 50.53 1.0 - 10.62 8.20 25.0 25 0.636 39.30
∑ T∗ /M 143.3
F= = = 3.22
∑ W sinθ 44.54
Then using the updated F=3.22 re-evaluate M and T ∗ /M until the solution converges. In this
problem this gives F = 3.25
4
Problem (4): (Wedge method)

A slope was created by dumping a clayey sand (γbulk = 18 kN/m3) onto a soil whose surface
has been softened to create a thin soft clay layer as shown in the figure below. If the shear
strength parameters of the clayey sand are 𝑐′= 0, ∅′ = 30o, and the undrained strength of the
softened clay layer is 40 kPa, determine the short term factor of safety of the slope (assume
that the failure mechanism is as shown below).
Solution:
Problem (4): Wedge method.
1. Calculate areas:
A1 = 86.6 m2 and A2 = 115.6 m2
2. Assume Factor of Safety: F=2
3. Calculate c, and ∅ parameters:
Weak layer 𝑐𝑚 = cu/F = 40/2 = 20 kPa and ∅𝑚 = 0

 tan  1  tan30 16.1o
Clayey sand 𝑐𝑚 = 0 and ∅′𝑚 = tan 1 tan  
 F   2 
4. Calculate known forces
W1 = 86.6  18 = 1558.8 kN/m.

W2 = 115.6  18 = 2080 kN/m
C1 = 20  20 = 400 kN/m
5. Draw force diagrams
5
For Block 1: Resolving horizontally gives X1 cos (16.1+30) = C1

X1 = 576.9 kN/m
For Block 2: Resolving horizontally gives X2 cos (16.1+30) = R2 cos (16.1+40)

X2 = 0.80 R2
Resolving vertically gives W2 = X2 sin (46.1) + R2 sin (56.1)

X2 =1186.9 kN/m
Repeat for F = 1.5 (𝑐𝑚 = 26.67 kPa, ∅′𝑚 = 21.05o)
X1 = 848.5 kN/m
X2 = 0.77 R2
X2 = 1086.6 kN/m
Using linear interpolation / extrapolation: F = 1.18
Problem (5): (Infinite slope)

An infinite slope is shown in the figure below. The shear strength parameters at the interface
of soil and rock are as follows; 𝑐 = 18 kN/m2, and ∅ = 25o.
(a) If H = 8 m and 𝛽= 20o, find the factor of safety against sliding on the rock surface.
(b) If 𝛽= 30o, find the height, H, for which Fs = 1.0 (assume pore water pressure to be zero).
Problem (5): Infinite slope without seepage.
Solution:
1900(9.81)
(a) 𝛾 = 𝜌. 𝑔 = = 18.64 kN/m3
1000
𝑐 𝑡𝑎𝑛 ∅
𝐹𝑠 = +
𝛾𝐻 𝑐𝑜𝑠 2 𝛽 tan 𝛽 𝑡𝑎𝑛 𝛽
18 𝑡𝑎𝑛 25
𝐹𝑠 =
(18.64)(8) 𝑐𝑜𝑠2 20 (tan 20)
+ 𝑡𝑎𝑛 20
= 0.376 + 1.28 = 1.656
6
𝑐 1 18 1
(𝒃) 𝐻𝑐𝑟 = 𝛾 = 18.64 𝑐𝑜𝑠2 30 (𝑡𝑎𝑛 30 − 𝑡𝑎𝑛 25) = 11.6 m
𝑐𝑜𝑠2 𝛽 (tan 𝛽 − tan ∅)
Problem (6): (Slope stability for ∅𝑢 = 0 soils)

A soil slope in undrained condition (∅𝑢 = 0) consists of three layers with different strengths
with water outside the slope as shown in the figure below. Determine the safety factor
against failure for the following cases:
(a) A shallow circle, tangent to elevation – 2.4m.
(b) A deeper circle, tangent to elevation – 6.0m.
+6
δ1 = 22o
δ2 = 62o
γ = 18.8 kN/m3
𝑐𝑢 = 30 Kpa 3.6m
Elevation - m
0 β = 50o γ = 16.50 kN/m3

𝑐𝑢 = 20 Kpa 3.6m
Hw = 2.4 m
-3
γ = 16.50 kN/m3
𝑐𝑢 = 25 Kpa 3.6m
-6
Problem (6): Circle tangent to elevation –2.4m for cohesive soil with ∅𝐮 = 0.
(a) A shallow circle, tangent to elevation – 2.4m.
D 0
d= = =0
H 7.2
Hw 2.4
= = 0.33
H 7.2
Using the charts at the top of Fig.(18), with β = 50° and d = 0:
xo = 0.35 and yo = 1.4
Xo = (H)(xo) = 7.2(0.35) = 2.52 m

Yo = (H)(yo) = 7.2(1.4) = 10.08 m
Plot the critical circle on the slope. The circle is shown in the figure above.
7
Measure the central angles of arc in each layer using a protractor. Calculate the weighted
average strength parameter Cavg. using:
∑ 𝛿𝑖 𝑐𝑖 (22𝑜 )(30)+(62𝑜 )(20)
Cavg. =
∑ 𝛿𝑖
= = 22.62 kN/m2
22+62
From Fig.(20), with β = 50° and Hw/H = 0.33 , find μw = 0.93.

Use layer thickness to average the unit weights. Unit weights are averaged only to the bottom
of the critical circle.
∑ 𝛾𝑖 ℎ 𝑖 (18.8)(3)+(16.5)(3)
γavg. =
∑ ℎ𝑖
= = 17.65 kN/m3
3+3
Calculate the driving force term Pd as follows:

𝛾 𝐻 + 𝑞 − 𝛾𝑤 𝐻𝑤 (17.65)(7.2)+(0)−(9.81)(2.4)
Pd = = (1)(0.93)(1)
= 111
𝜇𝑞 𝜇𝑤 𝜇𝑡
From Fig.(18), with d = 0 and β = 50° , find No = 5.8:
Calculate the factor of safety using:
𝑁𝑜 𝑐 (5.8)(22.62)
F= = = 1.18
𝑃𝑑 111
(b) A deeper circle, tangent to elevation – 6.0m.
+6 δ3 =16o
δ2 =17o
δ1 = 84o γ = 18.8 kN/m3

+3 3.6m
𝑐𝑢 = 30 Kpa
Elevation - m
0 γ = 16.50 kN/m3
β = 50o 3.6m
𝑐𝑢 = 20 Kpa
Hw = 2.4 m
-3
γ = 16.50 kN/m3
𝑐𝑢 = 25 Kpa 3.6m
-6
Problem (6): Circle tangent to elevation – 6m for cohesive soil with ∅u = 0.

8
D 3.6
d= = = 0.5
H 7.2
Hw 2.4
= = 0.33
H 7.2
Using the charts at the bottom of Fig.(18), with β = 50° and d = 0.5:
xo = 0.35 and yo = 1.5
Xo = (H)(xo) = 7.2(0.35) = 2.52 m

Yo = (H)(yo) = 7.2(1.5) = 10.8 m
Plot the critical circle on the slope as shown in the figure above.
Measure the central angles of arc in each layer using a protractor. Calculate the weighted
average strength parameter Cavg. using:
∑ 𝛿𝑖 𝑐𝑖 (16𝑜 )(30)+(17𝑜 )(20)+(84𝑜 )(25)

Cavg. =
∑ 𝛿𝑖
= = 25 kN/m2
16+17+84
From Fig.(20), with d = 0.5 and Hw/H = 0.33 , find μw = 0.95.

Use layer thickness to average the unit weights. Since the soil below the slope toe is of 𝜙 = 0 ,
the unit weight is averaged only to the toe of the slope. The unit weight below the toe has no
influence on stability if 𝜙 = 0.
∑ 𝛾𝑖 ℎ 𝑖 (18.8)(3)+(16.5)(3)
γavg. =
∑ ℎ𝑖
= = 17.65 kN/m3
3+3

𝛾 𝐻 + 𝑞 − 𝛾𝑤 𝐻𝑤 (17.65)(7.2)+(0)−(9.81)(2.4)
Pd = = (1)(0.95)(1)
= 109
From Fig.(18), with d = 0 and β = 50° , find No = 5.6:
𝑁𝑜 𝑐 (5.6)(25)
F= = = 1.28
𝑃𝑑 109
9
∴ This circle is less critical than the circle tangent to elevation – 2.4m analyzed previously.
Problem (7): (Slope stability for ∅𝑢 > 0 soils-Total stress analysis)
A slope in soils with both c and ∅ is as shown in the figure below. The slope consists of
three soil layers with different strengths with no water outside the slope. Determine the
safety factor against failure?
𝛿3
+ 12 𝛿2
𝛿1
𝛾𝑚 = 18 𝑘𝑁/𝑚3
∅𝑢 = 8o 6m
𝑐𝑢 = 40 𝑘𝑁/𝑚2
+6
Elevation - m
𝛾𝑚 = 17.2 𝑘𝑁/𝑚3
∅𝑢 = 6o 6m
𝑐𝑢 = 30 𝑘𝑁/𝑚2
0
𝛾𝑚 = 18.8 𝑘𝑁/𝑚3
∅𝑢 = 0 6m
𝑐𝑢 = 40 𝑘𝑁/𝑚2
-6
Problem (7): Total stress analysis of a toe circle in soils with both c and ∅.
The factor of safety for a toe circle is calculated as follows;

Use layers thicknesses to average the unit weights from ground surface down to the toe of the
slope, since the unit weight of the soil below the toe has no effect on stability in this case.
∑ 𝛾𝑖 ℎ 𝑖 (18.0)(3)+(17.2)(3)
γavg. =
∑ ℎ𝑖
= = 17.6 kN/m3
3+3
Since there is no surcharge, 𝜇𝑞 = 1

Since there is no external water above toe, 𝜇𝑤 = 1
Since there is no seepage, 𝜇𝑤 ′ = 1
Since there is no tension cracks, 𝜇𝑡 = 1
𝛾 𝐻 + 𝑞 − 𝛾𝑤 𝐻𝑤 (17.6)(12)
𝑃𝑑 = = (1)(1)(1)
= 211.2 kN/m2
Calculate Pe as follows:
10
𝛾 𝐻 + 𝑞 − 𝛾𝑤 𝐻𝑤 ′ (17.6)(12)
𝑃𝑒 = = (1)(1)(1)
= 211.2 kN/m2
𝜇𝑞 𝜇𝑤 ′
Estimate Cavg. = 35 kPa and ϕavg. = 7o, and calculate 𝜆𝑐𝜙 as follows:
𝑃𝑒 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝜙 (211.2)(0.122)
𝜆𝑐𝜙 = = = 0.74
𝑐 35
From Fig.(22), with b = 1.5 and 𝜆𝑐𝜙 = 0.8:
xo = 0.6 and yo = 1.5
Xo = (H)(xo) = (12)(0.6) = 7.2 m

Yo = (H)(yo) = (12)(1.5) = 18 m
Calculate Cavg. , ϕavg. , and 𝜆𝑐𝜙 as follows:
∑ 𝛿 𝑖 𝑐𝑖 (20𝑜 )(40)+(31𝑜 )(30)+(44𝑜 )(40)

Cavg. =
∑ 𝛿𝑖
= = 37 kN/m2
20+31+44
∑ 𝛿𝑖 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝜙𝑖 (20)(tan 8)+(31)(tan 6)+(44)(tan 0)

tan ϕavg. =
∑ 𝛿𝑖
= = 0.064
20+31+44
𝑃𝑒 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝜙 (211.2)(0.064)
𝜆𝑐𝜙 = 𝑐
= = 0.4
37
xo = 0.65 and yo = 1.45

Xo = (H)(xo) = (12)(0.65) = 7.8 m
Yo = (H)(yo) = (12)(1.45) = 17.4 m
This circle is close to the previous iteration, so keep 𝜆𝑐𝜙 = 0.4 and Cavg = 37 kN/m2
From Fig.(22), with b = 1.5 and 𝜆𝑐𝜙 = 0.4: Ncf = 6

𝑐 (37)
𝐹 = 𝑁𝑐𝑓 = (6) (211.2) = 1.05
𝑃𝑑
11
Problem (8): (Slope stability for ∅𝑢 > 0 soils-Effective stress analysis)

A slope in soils with both 𝑐′ and ∅′. The effective strength parameters are shown in the figure
below. If water is outside the slope and seepage within the slope, determine the safety
factor against failure using effective stress analysis?
𝛿1
𝛿2
+ 12
𝛾𝑚 = 18.0 𝑘𝑁/𝑚3
∅′𝑢 = 35o 6m
𝑐𝑢′ = 5 𝑘𝑁/𝑚2
Elevation - m
+6
𝛾𝑚 = 18.0 𝑘𝑁/𝑚3
𝑯′𝒘 = 9m ∅′𝑢 = 30o 6m
𝑯𝒘 = 3m 𝑐𝑢′ = 7.5 𝑘𝑁/𝑚2
G.S.
0
𝛾𝑚 = 18.8 𝑘𝑁/𝑚3
∅′𝑢 = 10o 6m
𝑐𝑢′ = 35 𝑘𝑁/𝑚2
-6
Problem (8): Effective stress analysis of a toe circle in soils with both 𝒄′ and ∅′ .
Use layer thickness to average the unit weights. Unit weights are averaged only down to the
toe of the slope.
∑ 𝛾𝑖 ℎ 𝑖 (18.0)(3)+(18.0)(3)
γavg. =
∑ ℎ𝑖
= = 18.0 kN/m3
3+3
For this slope:
Hw 3
= = 0.25
H 12
Hw ′ 9
= = 0.75
H 12
Since there is no surcharge, 𝜇𝑞 = 1
Using Fig.(20) for toe circles with Hw / H = 0.25 and 𝛽 = 33.7o : 𝜇𝑤 = 0.96
with Hw ′/ H = 0.75 and 𝛽 = 33.7o : 𝜇𝑤 ′ = 0.95
and since there is no tension cracks, 𝜇𝑡 = 1
Calculate the driving forces terms Pd and Pe as follows:
12
𝛾 𝐻 + 𝑞 − 𝛾𝑤 𝐻𝑤 (18.0)(12)+ 0 −(9.81)(3)
𝑃𝑑 = = (1)(0.96)(1)
= 194 kN/m2
𝛾 𝐻 + 𝑞 − 𝛾𝑤 𝐻𝑤 ′ (18.0)(12)+ 0 −(9.81)(9)
𝑃𝑒 = = (1)(0.95)
= 134 kN/m2
𝜇𝑞 𝜇𝑤 ′
Estimate Cavg. = 6 kPa and ϕavg. = 33o, and calculate 𝜆𝑐𝜙 as follows:
𝑃𝑒 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝜙 (134)(0.64)
𝜆𝑐𝜙 = = = 14.3
𝑐 6
xo = 0 and yo = 1.9
Xo = (H)(xo) = (12)(0) = 0 m
Yo = (H)(yo) = (12)(1.9) = 22.8 m
Calculate Cavg. , ϕavg. , and 𝜆𝑐𝜙 as follows:
∑ 𝛿 𝑖 𝑐𝑖 (19𝑜 )(5)+(42𝑜 )(7.5)

Cavg. =
∑ 𝛿𝑖
= = 6.72 kN/m2
19+42
∑ 𝛿𝑖 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝜙𝑖 (19)(tan 35)+(42)(tan 30)

tan ϕavg. =
∑ 𝛿𝑖
= = 0.62
19+42
𝑃𝑒 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝜙 (134)(0.62)
𝜆𝑐𝜙 = = = 12.4
𝑐 6.72

xo = 0.02 and yo = 1.85
Xo = (H)(xo) = (12)(0.02) = 0.24 m
Yo = (H)(yo) = (12)(1.85) = 22.2 m
This circle is close to the previous iteration, so keep 𝜆𝑐𝜙 = 12.4 and Cavg = 6.72 kN/m2
From Fig.(22), with b = 1.5 and 𝜆𝑐𝜙 = 12.4: Ncf = 35

𝑐 (6.72)
𝐹 = 𝑁𝑐𝑓 = (35) (194) = 1.21
𝑃𝑑
13
Problem (9): (Taylor’s Stability Chart for ∅ = 0 𝑆𝑜𝑖𝑙𝑠)

A slope has an inclination of 30o and is 8 m high. The soil properties are cu = 20 kN/m3, ∅u = 0o,
γbulk= 15 kN/m3. Determine the short term factor of safety if the clay deposit overlies rock
which lies 2 m below the base of the slope.
8m
30o
Solution:
Calculate depth factor D from DH = 10 m, H = 8 m. giving D = 1.25

c
From Taylor’s chart, Fig.(24), for D =1.25 and β = 30o , N s   0.155 and hence F
HF
= 1.075
Note that if  = 0 and D =  then N = 0.181 and F = 0.92
This indicates that for a deep seated failure, reductions in the depth of soil below the bottom of
the slope result in increases in the factor of safety.
Problem (10): (Taylor Chart c−∅ 𝑠𝑜𝑖𝑙)

A slope has an inclination of 30o and is 8 m high. The soil properties are cu = 20 kN/m3, ∅u =5o,
γbulk= 15 kN/m3. Determine the short term factor of safety if the clay deposit is infinitely deep.
8m
30o
Solution:
c
From Taylor stability chart, Fig.(25), for i = 30o and  = 5o:  011
.
 HF
c 20
Hence F  1.5
 H N s 1580.11
However, for the correct solution a factored tan-1[(tan /F] should be used. So having
determined F.O.S. an iterative procedure is required using the updated * to determine the
correct factor of safety.
Regions on the chart indicate that the failure in this problem is a deep-seated failure mode.
14

A cut 9m deep is to be made in a deposit of a highly cohesive soil that is 18m thick and
underlaid by rock. The properties of the soil to be cut are, c = 36 kN/m2, ∅= 0° and 𝛾 = 18.86
kN/m3. If the factor of safety against slope failure is equal to 1.25, estimate the slope angle
(𝛽) at which the cut should be made.
Solution:
D H = 18m and H = 9m, so D = 18/9 = 2.0 9m

𝑐𝑑 𝛽 = ?∅∅
(Taylor’s stability number) 𝑁𝑠 =
𝛾𝐻𝐹
Cohesive soil
36 c = 36 kN/m2
𝑁𝑠 = = 0.17 9m
∅ = 0°
(18.86)(9)(1.25)
𝛾 = 18.86 kN/m3
∅∅
From Fig.(24) with 𝑁𝑠 = 0.17 and D = 2.0; 𝛽 = 25o. ∅
Rock ∅∅
∅∅
A cut 7.5m deep is to be made in a stratum of highly cohesive soil as shown in the figure
below.
1. The slope angle 𝛽 is 30°.
2. Bedrock is located 12m below the original ground surface.
3. The soil has a unit weight of 18.86 kN/m3; cohesion = 31.1 kN/m2 and angle of internal
friction = 0°. Find the F.O.S. against slope failure.
7.5m Cohesive soil

o c = 31.1 kN/m2 12m
∅∅ 30 ∅ = 0°
𝛾 = 18.86 kN/m3 ∅∅
∅
Solution: Rock ∅∅
D H = 12m and H = 7.5m, so D = 12/7.5 = 1.60 ∅∅
From Fig.(24) with β = 30o and D = 1.6; Ns = 0.17
cd 31.1
(Taylor’s stability number) Ns = ; F = (18.86)(7.5)(0.17) = 1.29
γHF
15

A 15 m high embankment is inclined at 40o to the horizontal. If ∅ =10o, 𝛾 = 1.75 gm/cm3,and
c = 0.275 kg/cm2, determine its F.O.S. against slope stability failure.
Solution:
From Fig.(25) for β = 30o and ∅ = 10o; Ns = 0.09

cd
(Taylor’s stability number) Ns =
γHF
cd (0.275)(1000)
F= = (1.75)(15)(100)(0.09) = 1.16
γ H Ns
Problem (14): (Infinite slope analysis)

A slope where a relatively thin layer of soil overlies firm soil is as shown in the figure below.
Determine the safety factor against failure using the infinite slope stability charts.
γ = 18.8 kN/m3
c ′ = 15 kN/m2
∅′ = 30o
tan ∅′ = 0.577
3.6m
β = 20o
2.4m tan β = 0.364
3.4m cot β = 2.75
Problem (14): Infinite slope analysis.
For seepage parallel to slope:

X = 2.4 m and T = 3.4 m
𝑋 𝛾𝜔 (2.4) (9.81)
𝑟𝑢 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠 2 𝛽 = 𝑐𝑜𝑠 2 20 = 0.325
𝑇 𝛾 (3.4) (18.8)
From Fig.(26), with 𝑟𝑢 = 0.325 and cot 𝛽 = 2.75: A = 0.62 and B = 3.1
16
𝑡𝑎𝑛𝜙′ 𝑐′ 0.577
F =𝐴 +𝐵 = 0.62 0.364 + 3.1 (18.815
)(3.6)
= 1.67
𝑡𝑎𝑛𝛽 𝛾𝐻
For horizontal seepage emerging from slope, 𝜃 = 0o
𝛾𝜔 1 9.81 1
𝑟𝑢 = = = 0.52
𝛾 1 + 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝛽 𝑡𝑎𝑛𝜃 18.8 1+(0.364)(0)
From Fig.(26), with 𝑟𝑢 = 0.52 and cot 𝛽 = 2.75: A = 0.41 and B = 3.1
Calculate the factor of safety as:
𝑡𝑎𝑛𝜙′ 𝑐′ 0.577
F =𝐴 +𝐵 = 0.41 0.364 + 3.1 (18.815
)(3.6)
= 1.33
𝑡𝑎𝑛𝛽 𝛾𝐻
Problem (15): (Strength increasing with depth)

A submerged clay slope with 𝜙 = 0 and strength is increasing linearly with depth is shown in
the figure below. Determine its safety factor against shear failure?
𝐇𝐨 = 4.5m
7.5 kN/m2
H = 30m
γ =15.7 kN/m3
γb =5.89 kN/m3
57.5 kN/m2
Problem (15): Clay slope with 𝜙 = 𝟎 and strength increasing with depth.
The factor of safety is calculated using the slope stability chart shown in Fig.(27).
Extrapolating the strength profile up to zero gives Ho = 4.5 m.
Ho 4.5
Calculate M as: M = = 30 = 0.15
H
From Fig.(27), with M = 0.15 and β = 45: N = 5.1
From the soil strength profile, cb = 57.5 kN/m2
cb 57.5
Calculate the factor of safety as: F = N = (5.1) (5.89)(30+4.5) = 1.44
γ (H+Ho )
17
Problem (16): (Single Slice on a Planner Surface)

Find the Factor of Safety of the slope cut shown in the figure below. Given that c = 7.2
kN/m2, ∅= 25° and 𝛾 = 16.50 kN/m3.
Permeable Soil
𝛾 = 16.5 kN/m3
∅
∅∅
1
3m 1
Highly ∅∅
Impermeable
∅∅ Cohesive
∅∅ Soil
4.5m 30o
∅∅
Solution:
1.5m
D 3
45o
L= = = 6m ∅∅ Problem (16).
sin α sin 30
D 3
h= sin(β − α) = sin(45 − 30) = 1.1m
sin β sin 45
Lhγ (6)(1.1)(16.5)
w= = = 54.45 kN/m
2 2
c L + W cos α tan∅ (7.2)(6) + (54.45)(cos 30)(tan 25)

F. S. = = (54.45)(sin 30)
= 2.39
W sin α
Problem (17): (Culmann’s method)

A 1.8 m deep vertical trench wall is to be dug in a soil without shoring. The soil’s unit weight,
angel of internal friction, and cohesion are 19.0 kN/m3, 28°, and 20.2 kN/m2 respectively.
Find the Factor of safety of this trench using the Culmann method.
Note: This method assumes that sliding would occur along plane passes through the toe the slope
Solution:
4 𝑐𝑑 𝑠𝑖𝑛 𝛽 𝑐𝑜𝑠 ∅𝑑
𝐻=
𝛾[1−𝑐𝑜𝑠(𝛽−∅𝑑 )]
Try a F.S.
 
tan ∅ tan 28
tan ∅d = = = 0.532
F.S.∅ 1.0
Therefore, d = 28 and = 90for a vertical wall.
18
(4) (cd ) sin 90 cos 28

1.8 = ; cd = 5.14 kN/m2
19 [1−cos(90−28)]
c 20.2
F. S.c = = = 3.93 kN/m2
cd 5.14
Since [F.S.c≠[ F.S.another trial factor of safety must be attempted.
Try a F.S.
tan ∅ tan 28
tan ∅d = = = 0.265
F.S.∅ 2.0
Therefore, d = 14.89 and = 90for a vertical wall.
(4) (cd ) sin 90 cos 14.89

1.8 = ; cd = 6.57 kN/m2
19 [1−cos(90−14.89)]
c 20.2
F. S.c = = = 3.07 kN/m2
cd 6.57
Since [F.S.c≠[ F.S.another trial factor of safety must be attempted.
Try a F.S.
tan ∅ tan 28
tan ∅d = = = 0.177
F.S.∅ 3.0
Therefore, d = 10.04 and = 90for a vertical wall.
(4) (cd ) sin 90 cos 10.04

1.8 = ; cd = 7.17 kN/m2
19 [1−cos(90−10.04)]
c 20.2
F. S.c = = = 2.82 kN/m2
cd 7.17
Since [F.S.c≠[ F.S.the

correctfactor of safety has not yet been
found. Rather than continue the trial and
error procedure, the values of F. S.c and
F. S.∅ are plotted in figure, from which the
applicable factor of safety of about 2.84
can be read.
19

Solved Problems: Problem (1) : (Ordinary Method of Slices)

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Solved Problems: Problem (1) : (Ordinary Method of Slices)

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Soil Mechanics Assist. Prof. Dr. Rafi' M. S.

Problem (1): (Ordinary method of slices)

Problem (1): Ordinary method of slices.

The sliding wedge is divided into 7 slices.

Slice W 𝜶𝒏 𝑾𝒏 𝒔𝒊𝒏 𝜶𝒏 𝑾𝒏 𝒄𝒐𝒔 𝜶𝒏

1 22.4 70 0.94 0.342 2.924 21.1 6.7

c L + ∑ W cos α tan ∅ c (∑ col. 6) + (∑ col. 8) tan ∅

Problem (2): (Fellenius method)

Problem (2): Fellenius method of slices.

(a) The factor of safety is given by Eq.:

𝑐 ′ 𝐿𝑎 + 𝑡𝑎𝑛∅′ ∑(𝑊 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝛼 − 𝑢𝑙)

𝑊 = 𝛾 𝑏 ℎ = (20)(1.5)(h) = 30h kN/m

𝑊 cos𝛼 = 30h cos𝛼

∑ 𝑊 cos𝛼 = 30(17.5) = 525 kN/m

Slice No. h cos 𝛂 (m) h sin 𝛂 (m) u (kN/m2) l (m) ul (kN/m)

1 0.75 −0.15 5.9 1.55 9.1

𝑐 ′ 𝐿𝑎 + 𝑡𝑎𝑛∅′ ∑(𝑊 𝑐𝑜𝑠𝛼 − 𝑢𝑙) (10)(14.35) + (0.554)(393)

(b) In terms of critical-state strength

Problem (3): (Bishop’s simplified method)

Problem calculations for slice 6:

∆xi = 1.0 m measured from the figure

Wi = A γ = (1)(2)(15) + (1)(0.268)(20) = 35.36 kN/m

Slice 𝛉 ∆x u W Wsin𝛉 c∆x T* = c∆x + (W M T*/M

1 -25.4 1.0 2.628 5.357 -2.30 - 1.58 0.821 1.92

Problem (4): (Wedge method)

A1 = 86.6 m2 and A2 = 115.6 m2

2. Assume Factor of Safety: F=2

3. Calculate c, and ∅ parameters:

Weak layer 𝑐𝑚 = cu/F = 40/2 = 20 kPa and ∅𝑚 = 0

W1 = 86.6  18 = 1558.8 kN/m.

5. Draw force diagrams

For Block 1: Resolving horizontally gives X1 cos (16.1+30) = C1

For Block 2: Resolving horizontally gives X2 cos (16.1+30) = R2 cos (16.1+40)

Resolving vertically gives W2 = X2 sin (46.1) + R2 sin (56.1)

Using linear interpolation / extrapolation: F = 1.18

Problem (5): (Infinite slope)

Problem (5): Infinite slope without seepage.

Problem (6): (Slope stability for ∅𝑢 = 0 soils)

0 β = 50o γ = 16.50 kN/m3

(a) A shallow circle, tangent to elevation – 2.4m.

Using the charts at the top of Fig.(18), with β = 50° and d = 0:

xo = 0.35 and yo = 1.4

Xo = (H)(xo) = 7.2(0.35) = 2.52 m

From Fig.(20), with β = 50° and Hw/H = 0.33 , find μw = 0.93.

Calculate the driving force term Pd as follows:

From Fig.(18), with d = 0 and β = 50° , find No = 5.8:

Calculate the factor of safety using:

(b) A deeper circle, tangent to elevation – 6.0m.

δ1 = 84o γ = 18.8 kN/m3

Problem (6): Circle tangent to elevation – 6m for cohesive soil with ∅u = 0.

xo = 0.35 and yo = 1.5

Xo = (H)(xo) = 7.2(0.35) = 2.52 m

∑ 𝛿𝑖 𝑐𝑖 (16𝑜 )(30)+(17𝑜 )(20)+(84𝑜 )(25)

From Fig.(20), with d = 0.5 and Hw/H = 0.33 , find μw = 0.95.

Calculate the driving force term Pd as follows:

From Fig.(18), with d = 0 and β = 50° , find No = 5.6:

Calculate the factor of safety using:

The factor of safety for a toe circle is calculated as follows;

Since there is no surcharge, 𝜇𝑞 = 1

From Fig.(22), with b = 1.5 and 𝜆𝑐𝜙 = 0.8:

xo = 0.6 and yo = 1.5

Xo = (H)(xo) = (12)(0.6) = 7.2 m

∑ 𝛿 𝑖 𝑐𝑖 (20𝑜 )(40)+(31𝑜 )(30)+(44𝑜 )(40)