For soils classified as sandy gravel, foundation pressure shall not exceed how many PSF?

For soils classified as sandy gravel, foundation pressure shall not exceed how many PSF?

• A. 1000 pounds per square foot
• B. 3000 pounds per square foot
• C. 2000 pounds per square foot
• D. 4000 pounds per square foot

Answer: (B)

The fundamental idea is the allowable foundation pressure a soil can safely bear under a shallow footing. For sandy gravel, the typical allowable bearing pressure is about 3000 pounds per square foot. This value comes from standard soil bearing capacity guidelines for granular soils that have good density and drainage; such soils resist compression primarily through friction and interlock among particles, giving a solid but not unlimited capacity. Exceeding this pressure risks excessive settlement or potential shear failure, especially if moisture content rises, drainage is poor, or frost effects come into play. The other options are either too low for well-compacted sandy gravel or too high for typical conditions in this soil type.

The fundamental idea is the allowable foundation pressure a soil can safely bear under a shallow footing. For sandy gravel, the typical allowable bearing pressure is about 3000 pounds per square foot. This value comes from standard soil bearing capacity guidelines for granular soils that have good density and drainage; such soils resist compression primarily through friction and interlock among particles, giving a solid but not unlimited capacity. Exceeding this pressure risks excessive settlement or potential shear failure, especially if moisture content rises, drainage is poor, or frost effects come into play. The other options are either too low for well-compacted sandy gravel or too high for typical conditions in this soil type.