Question

The term _________ on soil is used to indicate the maximum pressure which can be exerted on soil while taking into account shear failure, settlement and the ability of structure to resist settlement.

(a) Bearing capacity

(b) Net pressure intensity

(c) Allowable bearing pressure

(d) Maximum safe bearing capacity

I have been asked this question by my school principal while I was bunking the class.

Origin of the question is Ground Techniques topic in section Site Investigation and Ground Techniques of Construction & Building Materials

Answer 1

Right answer is (c) Allowable bearing pressure

Explanation: The value of Allowable Bearing Pressure on soil depends on the nature of ground and the type of building. The maximum safe bearing capacity of soil is generally more than the allowable bearing pressure on soil.