Question

The minimum bearing capacity of a soil under a given footing occurs when the groundwater table location is at:

• A. the base of the footing
• B. the ground level
• C. a depth equal to one-half of the width of footing
• D. a depth equal to the width of footing

Hint:

Remember: Groundwater at ground level reduces effective stress most severely, giving minimum bearing capacity.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Groundwater Table Impact.
The groundwater table's elevation affects the effective stress, consequently altering the soil's bearing capacity.

Step 2: Case Comparison.
- Groundwater depth exceeds footing width: No impact.
- Groundwater at footing base: Moderate effective stress reduction.
- Groundwater at ground level: Significant effective stress reduction across the soil profile.

Step 3: Determination.
Consequently, the lowest bearing capacity is observed when the groundwater table is at ground level.