Multiple choice

A retaining wall of height 8 m retains dry sand. In the initial state, the soil is loose and has a void ratio of 0.5, $\gamma d$= 17.8 kN/m3 and $psi$ = 30o. Subsequently, the backfill is compacted to a state where void ratio is 0.4, $\gamma d$= 18.8 kN/m3 and $psi$= 35o. The ratio of initial passive thrust to the final passive thrust, according to Rankine’s earth pressure theory, is

  1. 0.38

  2. 0.64

  3. 0.77

  4. 1.55

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
C Correct answer
Explanation

Passive thrust Pp = 0.5*gamma*H^2*Kp. Calculate Kp for both states using Rankine's theory (Kp = tan^2(45 + phi/2)) and find the ratio of the thrusts.