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    Soils Types Notes LN

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    sudhakar

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    Soils Types Notes LN

    Uploaded by

    sudhakar
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    Soils Types Notes Ln

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    6 views3 pages

    Soils Types Notes LN

    Uploaded by

    sudhakar

    Copyright:

    © All Rights Reserved
    Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online from Scribd
    Download as docx, pdf, or txt
    of 3

    SOILS TYPES BRIEF EXPLANATION :

    This post explains the different types of soil textures as well as the three main types of rocks:
    sedimentary, metamorphic, and igneous.

    Soil Texture Types:


    Soil texture refers to the proportion of different sized mineral particles in soil. The three main
    types of soil textures are sand, silt, and clay. Sand particles are the largest, ranging in size from
    0.05mm to 2mm, and are often visible to the naked eye. Silt particles are smaller than sand
    particles, ranging in size from 0.002mm to 0.05mm. Clay particles are the smallest, less than
    0.002mm in size. The texture of soil affects the soil's ability to retain water, nutrients, and air,
    which in turn affects plant growth.

    Sedimentary Rocks:
    Sedimentary rocks are formed by the accumulation and consolidation of sediment or mineral
    particles. Sediments can be derived from the weathering and erosion of existing rocks, as well as
    from organic materials. These sediments are transported and deposited in layers, where they are
    compacted and cemented together to form rock. Examples of sedimentary rocks include
    sandstone, limestone, and shale.

    Metamorphic Rocks:
    Metamorphic rocks are formed from existing rocks that undergo a change in their physical or
    chemical properties due to heat, pressure, or both. This process is called metamorphism. The
    original rock, or protolith, can be a sedimentary, igneous, or another metamorphic rock. Examples
    of metamorphic rocks include marble, slate, and gneiss.
    Igneous Rocks:
    Igneous rocks are formed by the cooling and solidification of molten rock material. This molten
    material, called magma or lava, can be derived from deep within the Earth's crust or mantle.
    Igneous rocks can be classified into two types: intrusive and extrusive. Intrusive rocks form when
    magma cools and solidifies beneath the Earth's surface, while extrusive rocks form when lava
    cools and solidifies on the Earth's surface. Examples of igneous rocks include granite, basalt, and
    pumice.

    IDENTIFICATION OF SOILS TESTING:

    As a geotechnical professional, accurately identifying soil types is crucial. Two soil types that can
    be easily confused are silt and clay. Let's discuss how to differentiate between them when
    logging soils in the UK.

    📏 Particle Size:
    Silt and clay are both fine-grained soils, but silt particles are larger than clay particles. Silt has a
    particle size of 0.002-0.06 mm, while clay particles are smaller than 0.002 mm.

    🤏 Touch Test:
    The touch test is a quick and straightforward method to differentiate between silt and clay. Rub a
    moistened soil sample between your fingers – silt feels smooth and silky, while clay feels sticky
    and plastic-like.

    💧 Sedimentation Test:
    Mix a soil sample with water in a jar and let it settle. Silt will settle faster than clay, typically within
    a few hours. Clay may take several days to settle, often creating a hazy suspension.
    🌊 Dilatancy Test:
    Press a wet soil sample in your hand, then quickly open your fingers. If the sample dilates and
    water appears on the surface, it's likely silt. Clay, on the other hand, won't exhibit this behaviour.

    Remember, accurate soil identification is vital for determining soil properties, designing
    foundations, and assessing slope stability. Developing the ability to distinguish between silt and
    clay is an essential skill for geotechnical professionals.

    ❓ What are some challenges you've faced when differentiating between silt and clay? Have you
    encountered any unique soil types in your work that were difficult to classify? Share your
    thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

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