Course Purpose
The course seeks to expose learners to knowledge skills and attitudes related to Soil Mechanics and Geology.
Course Learning Outcomes
CLO 1: Explain the Soil formation processes, properties and classification
CLO 2: Describe stress distribution in soils
CLO 3: Discuss earth pressures and its effects on construction
CLO 4: Carry out field tests to determine bearing capacity of soils.
Course Content
Introduction to Soil Mechanics: definition, objectives, and scope of soil mechanics, and the relationships between soil mechanics and geology, soil formation and structures, properties of soil, classification of soils, seepage, shear strength, stress distribution, Classification and Identification; soil classification systems, soil composition, and identification of soil types, Structure and Fabric: soil structure, soil fabric, and soil microstructure, Compaction and Permeability: soil compaction, soil permeability, and soil water retention, Soil Shear Strength: soil shear strength, soil compressive strength, and soil bearing capacity. Consolidation and Settlement: consolidation, settlement, and time-settlement relationships, Soil Stresses and Strains: stresses and strains, deformation, and failure. Geology: geologic processes and landforms, rock and mineral identification, and geologic mapping and interpretation. Soil Erosion and Slope Stability: erosion, creep, and slope stability analysis. Exploration and Laboratory Testing; exploration techniques, laboratory testing of soils, and interpretation of test results, Applications of Soil Mechanics and Geology: soil mechanics in engineering design and construction, geologic hazards, and environmental issues related to soil and geology.