Question

Due to the ____________ the roots of trees planted near a building may extend upto the foundation level and may absorb the moisture.

(a) Withdrawal of moisture from the sub-soil

(b) Transpiration of the trees and shrubs

(c) Atmospheric action

(d) Unequal settlement of the soil

This question was addressed to me in an online quiz.

Question is from Foundations in section Foundations of Construction & Building Materials

Answer 1

The correct answer is:

(b) Transpiration of the trees and shrubs

Transpiration is the process by which plants release water vapor into the atmosphere through their leaves. Trees and shrubs planted near buildings can absorb moisture from the soil through their roots, and this can sometimes extend down to the foundation level. This absorption of moisture by the plant roots can lead to changes in the moisture content of the soil around the foundation, potentially affecting the stability of the foundation over time.