Consider the following statements: increasing width of footing results...
Changing the width of footing does not affect the bearing capacity of clays.
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Consider the following statements: increasing width of footing results...
Increasing Width of Footing and its Effects
Increasing the width of a footing can have various effects on the behavior of the soil beneath it. Let's analyze each statement given in the question and understand the reasons behind the correct answer option.
1. Increase in settlement of a consolidating clay layer:
When the width of a footing is increased, the load is distributed over a larger area of the soil. In the case of a consolidating clay layer, this can lead to an increase in settlement. The increased load and the larger area over which it is distributed can cause the clay particles to compress further, resulting in additional settlement.
2. Increase in bearing capacity of sandy soils:
Sandy soils generally have a higher bearing capacity compared to clay soils. When the width of a footing is increased, the load is spread over a larger area of the soil. This larger area reduces the pressure on the soil, resulting in an increase in bearing capacity. The load is distributed more evenly, preventing excessive stress concentration on the soil particles and allowing the soil to carry a greater load without failure.
3. Decrease in bearing capacity of clays:
Unlike sandy soils, clays have lower bearing capacities. When the width of a footing is increased, the load is distributed over a larger area. In the case of clay soils, this can lead to a decrease in bearing capacity. The load is spread out over a larger area, resulting in a lower pressure on the soil. This lower pressure may not be sufficient to overcome the cohesive forces between clay particles, reducing the bearing capacity of the soil.
Summary:
- Increasing the width of a footing can lead to an increase in settlement of a consolidating clay layer.
- It can also result in an increase in bearing capacity of sandy soils.
- However, in the case of clay soils, increasing the width of a footing can lead to a decrease in bearing capacity.
Therefore, the correct answer is option D, which states that statements 1 and 2 are correct.