Shrink-swell potential of a soil is dependent upon
A)the hydraulic conductivity of the soil
B)the proportion of clay in the soil
C)the proportion of fine sand in the soil
D)the chemistry and water content of the soil

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The shrink-swell potential of a soil is primarily dependent upon the proportion of clay in the soil. Clay particles have a high surface area relative to their volume and are able to hold onto water molecules tightly. When the soil dries out, the clay particles contract and cause the soil to shrink. When the soil becomes wet again, the clay particles expand, causing the soil to swell. Soils with high proportions of clay are more prone to shrink-swell behavior. However, it should be noted that other factors such as chemistry and water content can also influence the shrink-swell potential of a soil.

Shrink-Swell Potential of a Soil Is Dependent Upon