Which method is commonly used to analyze soil grain size distribution?

Which method is commonly used to analyze soil grain size distribution?

• A. Hydrometer method
• B. Sieve analysis
• C. Compaction test
• D. Standard Penetration Test

Answer: (B)

The sieve analysis is a widely accepted method for determining the grain size distribution of soil. This technique involves passing soil samples through a series of sieves with predetermined mesh sizes. By doing this, soil particles are separated according to size, allowing for the measurement of the mass of soil retained on each sieve. This collected data can be used to create a grain size distribution curve, which is essential for understanding the soil's characteristics and behavior under various conditions. Sieve analysis is particularly effective for coarse-grained soils, as it provides a direct measurement of the particle sizes. The results can greatly influence engineering decisions, including those related to foundation design, drainage, and compaction processes. The method is based on straightforward physical separation, making it both practical and informative for civil engineering applications focused on soil mechanics. In contrast, the other methods mentioned serve different purposes: the hydrometer method is more suitable for fine-grained soils, while compaction tests assess soil density and strength, and the Standard Penetration Test evaluates subsurface soil resistance but does not specifically analyze grain size distribution.

The sieve analysis is a widely accepted method for determining the grain size distribution of soil. This technique involves passing soil samples through a series of sieves with predetermined mesh sizes. By doing this, soil particles are separated according to size, allowing for the measurement of the mass of soil retained on each sieve. This collected data can be used to create a grain size distribution curve, which is essential for understanding the soil's characteristics and behavior under various conditions.

Sieve analysis is particularly effective for coarse-grained soils, as it provides a direct measurement of the particle sizes. The results can greatly influence engineering decisions, including those related to foundation design, drainage, and compaction processes. The method is based on straightforward physical separation, making it both practical and informative for civil engineering applications focused on soil mechanics.

In contrast, the other methods mentioned serve different purposes: the hydrometer method is more suitable for fine-grained soils, while compaction tests assess soil density and strength, and the Standard Penetration Test evaluates subsurface soil resistance but does not specifically analyze grain size distribution.