The reason(s) of nonuniform elastic settlement profile below a flexible footing, resting on a cohesionless soil while subjected to uniform loading, is/are: 

Explanation

• The non-uniform elastic settlement profile below a flexible footing resting on cohesionless soil subjected to uniform loading is due to the non-linear behaviour of the soil stiffness along the width of the footing.
• When a flexible footing is placed on cohesionless soil, the soil deforms non-linearly due to the soil's low shear strength. This leads to a differential settlement, where the soil settles more near the edges of the footing than in the centre.
• The non-uniform settlement profile is also influenced by the size and shape of the footing, as well as the intensity and distribution of the applied load.
• Additionally, the soil's compressibility and deformation characteristics play a crucial role in determining the magnitude and distribution of the settlement.
• The modulus of elasticity varies with width of footing so there is a variation in the stiffness along the width of footing.

Therefore, we can conclude that the nonuniform elastic settlement profile below a flexible footing, resting on a cohesionless soil while subjected to uniform loading is due to variation of soil stiffness along the width of the footing