What do you underestand by soil mechanics and why do you need to study this? What would be a solution of different soil engineering problems. [2074 Bhadra] [2]

Soil mechanics is defined as the application of laws of mechanics and hydraulics to the engineering problems dealing with sediment and other unconsolidated accumulation of solid particles produced by the mechanical and chemical disintegration of rocks regardless of whether or not they contain an admixtures of organic constituents. This definition was given by Terzaghi,father of soil mechanics.

1. To perform engineering soil surveys.
2.  To develop rational sampling devices and soil sampling methods.
3. To develop suitable soil testing equipment and soil testing methods.
4. To investigate physical properties of soil by means of field in laboratory test.
5.  To analyse and interpret soil test data and classify soils.
6. To understand the effect of various factor on soil such as static and dynamic loads, ice, water and temperature.
7. To solve the practical engineering problems by applying t....

Soil mechanics is defined as the application of laws of mechanics and hydraulics to the engineering problems dealing with sediment and other unconsolidated accumulation of solid particles produced by the mechanical and chemical disintegration of rocks regardless of whether or not they contain an admixtures of organic constituents. This definition was given by Terzaghi,father of soil mechanics.

Generally, for solving a soil problem, a mathematical model is prepared on the basis of certain simplified assumptions. Since the model doesn't represent completely the actual problem, Engineering judgement is necessary for the interpretation of data, the selection of soil parameters and the modification of soil problems.Now, economic evaluation is made and accordingly the one giving best performance requiring minimum cost is selected as the best type.

Example: a building can be supported by various types of foundations,Retaining structures can be used when sufficient space is not available for a mass of soil to spread and forms a safe slope,Pavements can be designed for providing a smooth and hard surface.