UNIVERSITY of GUYANA

FACULTY OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

SEMESTER 1, 2021/2022

CIV3112 − GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING 1

ASSIGNMENT − STRESSES IN SOIL FROM SURFACE LOADS

DUE DATE: THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2021

INSTRUCTIONS/INFORMATION:

▪ Work in groups of 8 to 10 members. On the first page of your submission, clearly state the
question part(s) that each group member worked on.
▪ Any evidence of plagiarism or collusion will result in the mark of zero being awarded.
▪ Handwritten or computerized responses are acceptable, but you are required to submit as
a single document in PDF format.

𝑸𝟏 A rectangular foundation 4 m × 6 m (Figure 𝑄1) transmits a stress of 100 kPa on the

surface of a soil deposit. Plot the distribution of increases of vertical stresses with depth
under points 𝐴, 𝐵 and 𝐶 up to a depth of 20 m. At what depth is the increase in vertical
stress below 𝐴 less than 10% of the surface stress?

Figure 𝑄1 ⋮
[Budhu M. Soil Mechanics & Foundations (3E), p. 183]

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𝑸𝟐 A water tank, 15 m in diameter and 10 m high, is proposed for a site where there is an
existing pipeline (Figure 𝑄2). Plot the distribution of vertical stress increases imposed by
the water tank on the pipeline along one-half the circumference nearest to the tank. The
empty tank’s weight (dead load) is 350 kN. Assume the water tank is filled to its capacity.

Figure 𝑄2 ⋮
[Budhu M. Soil Mechanics & Foundations (3E), p. 185]

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