CHAPTER 9

Stress
QUESTIONS AND PRACTICE PROBLEMS

Section 9.1 Mechanics of Materials

9.1 A 0.500 ft × 0.500 ft × 0.500 ft cube of soil is subjected to a vertical compressive force of
500 lb. This force is being applied to the top of the cube. As a result of this force, the
cube compresses to a height of 0.450 ft. Compute the vertical normal stress, the vertical
normal strain, and the Young’s modulus of the soil.

Solution

P 500 lb
σ= = = 2000 lb/ft 2
A (0.5 ft )2

dL 0.45 − 0.5
ε =− =− = 0.10
L 0.5

9.2 A soil has a Young’s modulus of 27,000 kPa and a Poisson’s ratio of 0.3. A cylindrical
sample of the soil 0.10 m in diameter and 0.2 m tall is subject to a vertical stress of
320 kPa. Compute the vertical normal strain, vertical deformation, horizontal normal
strain and horizontal deformation.

Solution
Vertical normal strain

σ σ 320 kPa
E= → ε || = = = 0.012
ε || E 27,000 kPa

Vertical deformation

dL
ε || = → dL = ε || L = (0.012)(0.2 m ) = −0.0024 m = 2.4 mm
L

Horizontal strain

ε⊥
ν= → ε ⊥ = νε || = (0.3)(0.012) = 0.0036
ε ||

Horizontal deformation
9-1

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 9-2 Stress Chap. 9

dL
ε =− → dL = −ε ⊥ L = −(0.0036)(0.10 m ) = −0.00036 m = 0.36 mm
L

Section 9.2 Mohr Circle Analyses

9.3 The major and minor principal stresses at a certain point in the ground are 450 and
200 kPa, respectively. Draw the Mohr circle for this point, compute the maximum shear
stress, τmax, and indicate the points on the Mohr circle that represent the planes on which
τmax acts.

Solution

σ1 − σ 3 450 − 200
τ max = = = 125 kPa
2 2

9.4 The stresses at a certain point in the ground are σx = 210 kPa, σz = 375 kPa, τzx = 75 kPa
and τxz = - 75 kPa. Draw the Mohr circle for this point and determine the following:

(a) The point pole

(b) The mean normal and deviator stress
(c) The magnitudes and directions of the principal stresses.
(d) The magnitude and directions of the maximum shear stress.
(e) The normal and shear stresses acting on a plane inclined 55° clockwise from the
horizontal.

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 Chap. 9 Stress 8-3

Solution

(a)

2
σ x +σ z ⎡σ − σ z ⎤
σ1 = + ⎢ x ⎥ + τ zx
2

2 ⎣ 2 ⎦
2
210 + 375 ⎡ 210 − 375 ⎤
= + ⎢ ⎥ + 75 2
2 ⎣ 2 ⎦
= 404 lb/ft 2

2
σ x +σ z ⎡σ − σ z ⎤
σ3 = − ⎢ x ⎥ + 75
2

2 ⎣ 2 ⎦
2
210 + 375 ⎡ 210 − 375 ⎤
= − ⎢ ⎥ + 75 2
2 ⎣ 2 ⎦
= 181 lb/ft 2

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 9-4 Stress Chap. 9

1 ⎛ 2σ z − σ 1 − σ 3 ⎞
θ z = cos −1 ⎜⎜ ⎟⎟
2 ⎝ σ1 −σ 3 ⎠
1 ⎛ 2(375) − 404 − 181 ⎞
= cos −1 ⎜ ⎟
2 ⎝ 404 − 181 ⎠
= 21°

The major principal stress acts at an angle of 21° clockwise from the horizontal. The
minor principal stress acts at an angle of 21° clockwise from the vertical.

(b)

σ1 −σ 3 404 − 181
τ max = = = 111 kPa
2 2

The maximum shear stress acts at an angle of 21 + 45 = 66° clockwise and 21 – 45 = 24°
counterclockwise from the horizontal.

(c)

θ = 55 − 21 = 34°

σ1 + σ 3 σ1 − σ 3
σ = cos 2θ
+
2 2
404 + 181 404 − 181
= + cos(2(34 ))
2 2
= 334 kPa

σ1 −σ 3 404 − 181
τ = sin 2θ = sin (2(34 )) = -103 kPa
2 2

9.5 The major principal stress at a certain point is 4800 lb/ft2 and acts vertically. The minor
principal stress is 3100 lb/ft2. Draw the Mohr circle for this point, locate the pole, then
compute the normal and shear stresses acting on a plane inclined 26° counter-clockwise
from the horizontal.

Solution

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 Chap. 9 Stress 8-5

Since the major principal stress acts vertically (σ1 = σz), the angle θz=0.

θ = 26°

σ1 + σ 3 σ1 − σ 3
σ = + cos 2θ
2 2
4800 + 3100 4800 − 3100
= + cos(2(26°))
2 2
= 4473 lb/ft 3

σ1 − σ 3 4800 − 3100
τ= sin 2θ = sin (2(26°)) = 670 lb/ft 2
2 2

9.6 A certain element of soil is subject to a mean normal stress of 420 kPa and a deviator
stress of 280 kPa. The major principal plane is rotated 30 degrees counterclockwise from
horizontal. Draw the Mohr circle for this soils element, locate the pole, and compute the
normal and shear forces acting on horizontal and vertical planes.

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 9-6 Stress Chap. 9

Solution
Mohr Circle

Computational solution

σ1 + σ 3 σ1 − σ 3
σ = ± cos 2θ
2 2
280
= 420 ± cos 2(30°)
2
σ = 490 kPa and 350 kPa

σ1 − σ 3
τ = sin 2θ
2
280
= sin 2(30°)
2
= 121.2 kPa

9.7 A laboratory soil sample is initially subject to principal stresses of 3,700 lb/ft2 and 2,300
lb/ft2. During testing, the major principal stress is increased while the minor principal
stress is kept the same. What is the major principle stress when the sample has reached a
deviator stress of 1,800 lb/ft2? Draw the Mohr circles for the two stress conditions on a
single figure.

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 Chap. 9 Stress 8-7

Solution

σ 1, 2 = σ 3 + σ d = 2,300 + 1,800 = 4,100 lb/ft 2

9.8 A cylindrical sample of soil is placed in a special testing device which applies vertical
and horizontal normal stresses to the sample. No shear stresses are applied on the vertical
and horizontal planes so they are always principal planes. The following loading
sequence is applied:

Load Step Vertical Normal Stress Horizontal Normal Stress

σz (lb/in2) σx (lb/in2)
1 12 12
2 24 12
3 36 24
4 48 24
5 48 36
Plot the stress path followed during this load sequence. Create two separate plots, one
showing the stress path using Mohr circles and a separate plot showing the stress path in
p-q space.

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 9-8 Stress Chap. 9

Solution
Mohr circle:

In p-q space:

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 Chap. 9 Stress 8-9

Sections 9.5 and 9.6 Geostatic and Induced Stresses

9.9 A certain sandy soil has a total unit weight of 118 lb/ft3. What is the vertical normal
stress, σz, at a point in this 15 ft below the ground surface?

Solution

σ z = ∑ γH
( )
= 118 lb/ft 3 (15 ft ) = 1770 lb/ft 2

9.10 Compute the vertical normal stress, σz, at points B and C in Figure 9.11.

Figure 9.11 Soil profile for Example 9.2.

Solution
@ B:

σ z = ∑ γH
( ) (
= 15.0 kN/m 3 (2.0 m ) + 16.8 kN/m 3 (1.6 m ) )
= 56.88 kPa

@ C:

σ z = ∑ γH
( )
= 15.0 kN/m 3 (0.9 m )
= 13.5 kPa

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 9-10 Stress Chap. 9

9.11 Using the soil profile in Figure 9.11, develop a plot of σz versus depth. Consider depths
between 0 and 10 m.

Solution
At z = 0: σ z = ∑ γH = 0
At z = 2.0 m: σ z = ∑ γH = (15.0)(2.0 ) = 30 kPa
At z = 4.5 m: σ z = ∑ γH = (15.0 )(2.0 ) + (16.8)(2.5) = 72 kPa
At z = 10.0 m: σ z = ∑ γH = (15.0 )(2.0 ) + (16.8)(2.5) + (17.2 )(5.5) = 167 kPa

σz (kPa)
0 50 100 150 200
0
1
2
3
Depth (m)

4
5
6
7
8
9
10

9.12 A vertical point load of 50.0 k acts upon the ground surface at coordinates x = 100 ft,
y = 150 ft. Using a Poisson’s ratio of 0.40, compute the induced stresses Δσx , Δσz , and
Δτxz at a point 3 ft below the ground surface at x = 104 ft, y = 150 ft.

Solution
Using Equation 9.23—9.30:

R = x 2f + y 2f + z 2f = (104 − 100 )2 + (150 − 150 )2 + (3 − 0)2 = 5.0 ft

r = x 2f + y 2f = (104 − 100 )2 + (150 − 150 )2 = 2.0 ft

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 Chap. 9 Stress 8-11

P ⎡ 3x f z f ⎛ y 2f − x 2f ⎞⎤
2
y 2f z f
Δσ x = ⎢ − (1 − 2ν )⎜ + ⎟⎥
2π ⎣⎢ R 5 ⎜ Rr 2 (R + z ) R 3 r 2 ⎟⎥
⎝ f ⎠⎦
50,000 ⎡ 3(4 ) 3 ⎛ (4 )2 − (0 )2 (0)2 (3) ⎞⎤
2
= ⎢ − (1 − 2(0 . 40 ))⎜ +
⎜ (5)(4 )2 (5 + 3) (5)3 (4 )2
⎟⎥
⎟
2π ⎢⎣ (5)5 ⎝ ⎠⎥⎦
= 327 lb/ft 2

3Pz 3f 3(50,000 )(3) (4 )

2
Δσ z = = = 206 lb/ft 2
2πR 5 2π (5)
5

3Pz 2f x f 3(50,000 )(3) (4 )

2
Δτ xz = − =− = −275 lb/ft 2
2πR 2π (5)
5 5

9.13 A vertical line load of 75 kN/m acts upon the ground surface. Assuming this load
extends for a very long distance in both directions, compute the induced vertical stress,
Δσz, at a point 1.5 m horizontal (measured perpendicular to the line) and 2.0 m below the
line.

Solution
Using Equations 9.31

2 z 2f P / b 2(2.0) (75)
2
Δσ z = =
π (x 2f + z 2f )
2
(
π (1.5)2 + (2.0)2 )
2

= 10 kPa

9.14 A grain silo is supported on a 20.0 by 50.0 m mat foundation. The total weight of the silo
and the mat is 180,000 kN. Using Boussinesq’s method, compute the induced vertical
stress, Δσz, in the soil at a point 15.0 m below the center of the mat. First use the full
analytical solution given by Equations 9.34 and 9.35. Repeat the computation using the
approximate method given by Equation 9.41. Finally, repeat the computation using
Figure 9.16. Compare the results from these three methods and comment on whether the
differences are significant.

Solution
Per Boussinesq:

P 180,000
q= = = 180kPa
A (20.0)(50.0)

Equations 9.34 and 9.35 compute the induced stress beneath the corner of a rectangular
loaded area. Therefore, we need to divide the mat foundation into four equal quadrants,
compute the induced stress beneath the inside corner of one of these quadrants, then
multiply by four.

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 9-12 Stress Chap. 9

B = 20.0 / 2 = 10.0 m
L = 50.0 / 2 = 25.0 m
z f = 15.0 m

? B 2 L2
B 2 + L2 + z 2f <
z 2f

(10.0)2 + (25.0)2 + (15.0)2 < (10.0) (252.0)

? 2 2

(15.0)
950 > 278

Therefore use Equation 9.35

⎡⎛ 2 BLz B 2 + L2 + z 2 ⎞⎛ B 2 + L2 + 2 z 2 ⎞
1 ⎢⎜ f f ⎟⎜ f
⎟
Iσz =
4π ⎜
⎣⎝
2
(2 2 2 2 ⎟⎜
⎢ zf B + L + zf + B L ⎝ B + L + zf
2
⎠
2
)2 2 ⎟
⎠

2 BLz f B 2 + L2 + z 2f ⎤
+ sin −1
⎥
( )
z 2f B 2 + L2 + z 2f + B 2 L2 ⎥
⎦
1 ⎡⎛ 2(10 )(25)(15) (10 )2 + (25)2 + (15)2 ⎞⎛ (10 )2 + (25)2 + 2(15)2 ⎞
= ⎢⎜ ⎟⎜ ⎟
4π
⎣⎝
2 2
( 2 2 2 2
⎠
2
)
⎢⎜ (15) (10 ) + (25) + (15) + (10 ) (25) ⎟⎜⎝ (10 ) + (25) + (15) ⎟⎠
2 2

2(10 )(25)(15) (10) + (25) + (15)

2 2 2⎤
+ sin −1
⎥
(15) ((10) + (25) + (15)
2 2 2 2
) + (10) (25) ⎥⎦
2 2

= 0.161

Δσ z = 4qIσ
= (4)(180)(0.161) = 116 kPa

Per Equation 9.41

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 Chap. 9 Stress 8-13

⎡ ⎛ ⎞
2.60−0.84 B / L
⎤
⎢ ⎜ ⎟ ⎥
⎢ ⎜ 1 ⎟ ⎥
Iσ = ⎢1 − ⎜ 1.38+ 0.62 B / L
⎟ ⎥
⎢ ⎜ ⎛ B ⎞ ⎟ ⎥
⎢ ⎜1+ ⎜ ⎟ ⎟ ⎥
⎢ ⎜⎝ ⎜⎝ 2 z f ⎟
⎠
⎟
⎠ ⎥
⎣ ⎦
2.60−0.84 ( 20 ) / (50 )
⎡ ⎛ ⎞ ⎤
⎢ ⎜ ⎟ ⎥
⎢ ⎜ 1 ⎟ ⎥
= ⎢1 − ⎜ 1.38+ 0.62 ( 20 ) / (50 ) ⎟ ⎥
⎢ ⎜ 1 + ⎛⎜ 20 ⎞⎟ ⎟ ⎥
⎢ ⎜ ⎜⎝ 2(15) ⎟⎠ ⎟ ⎥
⎣ ⎝ ⎠ ⎦
= 0.611
Δσ z = qI σ = 180(0.611) = 110 kPa

Per Figure 9.16

x 10
m= = = 0.667
z 15
y 20
n= = = 1.333
z 15

I σ = 0.16
Δσ z = 4qI σ
= 4(180 )(0.16 )
= 115 kPa

The difference between these methods is tolerable for most analyses.

9.15 For the grain silo described in Problem 9.14, compute the induced vertical stress, Δσz, in
the soil at a point at the midpoint of the long edge of the mat and 10 m below the ground
surface. Use both analytical solution given by Equations 9.34 and 9.35 and the chart
method using Figure 9.16 and compare the results.

Solution
Per Boussinesq:

P 180,000
q= = = 180kPa
A (20.0)(50.0)

Equations 9.34 and 9.35 compute the induced stress beneath the corner of a rectangular
loaded area. Therefore, we need to divide the mat foundation into two equal parts,

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 9-14 Stress Chap. 9

compute the induced stress beneath the inside corner of one of halves, then multiply by
two.

B = 20.0 m
L = 50.0 / 2 = 25.0 m
z f = 10.0 m

? B 2 L2
B 2 + L2 + z 2f <
z 2f

(20.0) + (25.0) + (10.0) <

2 2 (20.0) (25.0)
2
2
? 2

(10.0)2
1125 < 2500

Therefore use Equation 9.35

1 ⎛ 2 BLz B 2 + L2 + z 2 ⎞⎛ B 2 + L2 + 2 z 2 ⎞
Iσ = ⎜ f f ⎟⎜ f
⎟
4π
⎝ f
( f )
⎜ z 2 B 2 + L2 + z 2 + B 2 L2 ⎟⎜ B 2 + L2 + z 2
⎠⎝ f
⎟
⎠
⎛ 2 BLz B 2 + L2 + z 2 ⎞⎤
+ π − sin −1 ⎜ f f ⎟⎥
⎝ f
( f )
⎜ z 2 B 2 + L2 + z 2 + B 2 L2 ⎟⎥
⎠⎦

1 ⎡⎛ 2(20 )(25)(10 ) (20 )2 + (25)2 + (10)2 ⎞⎛ (20)2 + (25)2 + 2(10)2 ⎞

= ⎢⎜ ⎟⎜ ⎟
4π ⎜
⎣⎝
2
( 2 2 2
) 2 2 ⎟⎜
⎢ (10 ) (20) + (25) + (10) + (20 ) (25) ⎝ (20 ) + (25) + (10) ⎟⎠
⎠
2 2 2

⎛ 2(20)(25)(10 ) (20 )2 + (25)2 + (10)2 ⎞⎤

+ π − sin −1 ⎜ ⎟⎥
( )
⎜ (10 )2 (20)2 + (25)2 + (10)2 + (20 )2 (25)2 ⎟⎥
⎝ ⎠⎦
= 0.236

Δσ z = 2 I σ q
= (2)(0.236 )(180 ) = 85 kPa

Per Figure 9.16

x 20
m= = =2
z 10
y 25
n= = = 2.5
z 10

Iσ = 0.24

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 Chap. 9 Stress 8-15

Δσ z = 2qIσ
= 2(180)(0.24)
= 86.4 kPa

The difference between these methods is tolerable for most analyses.

Section 9.7 Superposition

9.16 A dilatometer test (an in-situ test described in Chapter 3) has been conducted at a depth
of 3.20 m in a soil that has a level ground surface and a unit weight of 19.2 kN/m3.
According to this test, the horizontal geostatic σx at this point is 48 kPa. A proposed
vertical point load of 1100 kN is to be applied to the ground surface at a point 1.10 m
west of the test location. Using a Poisson’s ratio of 0.37, compute the total σx, σz, and τzx
at the test point after the load is applied.

Solution
Geostatic:
σ x = 48 kPa per dilatometer

Δσ z = ∑ γh = (19.2)(3.2 ) = 61 kPa

Induced stress using Equations 9.23—9.30:

xf = 1.10 m
yf = 0
zf = 3.20 m

R = x 2f + y 2f + z 2f

R = 1.10 2 + 0 + 3.20 2 = 3.38 m

r = x 2f + y 2f

r = 1.10 2 + 0 = 1.10 m

P ⎡ 3x f z f
2
⎛ x 2f − y 2f y 2f z f ⎞⎤
Δσ x = ⎢ − (1 − 2ν )⎜ +
⎜ Rr 2 (R + z ) R 3 r 2 ⎟⎥⎥
⎟
2π ⎣⎢ R 5 ⎝ f ⎠⎦
⎡ 3(1.10)2 (3.20) ⎤
⎢ − ⎥
1100 ⎢ (3.38)
5

= ⎥
2π ⎢ ⎛ (1.10) − (0)
2 2
(0 ) (3.20 ) ⎞⎥⎥
2
⎢(1 − 2(0.37 ))⎜ ⎟
⎢⎣ ⎜ (3.38)(1.10)2 ((3.38) + (3.20)) + (3.38)3 (1.10)2 ⎟⎥
⎝ ⎠⎦
= 3 kPa

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 9-16 Stress Chap. 9

3Pz 3f 3(1100 )(3.20 )

3
Δσ z = = = 39 kPa
2π (3.38)
5
2πR 5

3Pz 2f x f 3(50,000 )(3) (1.10 )

2
Δτ zx = = = 13 kPa
2πR 5 2π (5)
5

Combined:

σ x = 48 + 3 = 51 kPa

σ z = 61 + 39 = 100 kPa

τ zx = 0 + 13 = 13 kPa

9.17 The circular tank in Figure 9.29 imparts a bearing pressure of 3000 lb/ft2 onto the soil
below.

(a) Compute the geostatic vertical stress, σz, at Point A. This is the stress that existed
before the tank was built.
(b) Using Figure 9.13, compute the induced vertical stress, Δσz at Point A due to the
weight of the tank.
(c) Combine the results from a and b to find the total σz at Point A after the tank is built.

Figure 9.29 Storage tank and soil profile for Problem 9.17

Solution
(a) σ z = ∑ γH = (128)(50 ) = 5100 lb/ft 2
(b) zf /B = 50/120 = 0.42
yf /B = 45/120 = 0.37

Per figure 9.13: Iσ = 0.55

Δσ z = Iσ σ z
= (0.55)(3000 ) = 1650 lb/ft 2

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 Chap. 9 Stress 8-17

(c) σ z = 6400 + 1650 = 8050 lb/ft 2

9.18 A second identical circular tank is constructed to the right of tank in Figure 9.29. The
center to center spacing of the two tanks is 190 ft. Both tanks impart a bearing pressure of
3000 lb/ft2 onto the soil below. Compute the induced vertical stress, Δσz , due to both
tanks at a point midway between the two tanks at a depth of 120 ft.

Solution

zf /B = 120/120 = 1.0
xf /B = 95/120 = 0.79

Per figure 9.13: Iσ= 0.1

Δσ z = I σ σ z
= (0.1)(3000) = 300 lb/ft 2

Using superposition, the induced stress from both tanks is

Δσ z = (2)(300 ) = 600 lb/ft 2

Section 9.8 Effective Stresses

9.19 At certain site the soil profile consists of a sandy soil with a total unit weight of 108 lb/ft3
above the water table and 127 lb/ft3 below the water table. The groundwater table is at a
depth of 8 ft. Compute the total vertical stress, σz, and the effective vertical stress, σ'z, at a
point 17 below the ground surface.

Solution
Total vertical stress:

σ z = ∑ γH
= (108)(8) + (127 )(9 )
= 2007 lb/ft 2

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 9-18 Stress Chap. 9

Effective vertical stress:

σ ′z = ∑ γH − u
= 2007 − (62.4 )(9)
= 1445.4 lb/ft 2

9.20 A lake with a water depth of 12 m is underlain by a soil with a total unit weight of
18.2 kN/m3. Compute the total vertical stress, σz, and the effective vertical stress, σ'z, at a
point 8 m below the bottom of the lake.

Solution
Total vertical stress:

σ z = ∑ γH
= (9.8)(12) + (18.2)(8)
= 263.2 kPa

Effective vertical stress:

σ ′z = ∑ γH − u
= 263.2 + (9.8)(20)
= 67.2 kPa

9.21 Develop a plot of σz , u, and σz′ vs. depth for the soil profile in Figure 9.11. Consider
depths from 0 to 10 m, assume hydrostatic conditions are present, and assume u = 0
above the groundwater table. Plot depth, z, on the vertical axis, with zero at the top and
increasing downward. This method of plotting the data is easier to visualize, because
depth on the plot is comparable to depth in a cross-section.

Solution
At z = 0:

σ z = ∑ γH = 0
u = γ w zw = 0
σ ′z = σ z − u = 0

At z = 2.0 m:

σ z = ∑ γH = (15.0)(2.0) = 30 kPa
u = γ w zw = 0
σ ′z = σ z − u = 30 − 0 = 30 kPa

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 Chap. 9 Stress 8-19

At z = 4.5 m:

σ z = ∑ γH = (15.0)(2.0) + (16.8)(2.5) = 72 kPa

u = γ w z w = (9.8)(2.5) = 24 kPa
σ ′z = σ z − u = 72 − 24 = 48 kPa

At z = 10.0 m:

σ z = ∑ γH = (15.0)(2.0) + (16.8)(2.5) + (17.2)(5.5) = 167 kPa

u = γ w zw = (9.8)(8.0) = 78 kPa
σ ′z = σ z − u = 167 − 78 = 89 kPa

Since γ is constant between each of these points, the plot of σz between each point is a
straight line. This data plots as shown below.

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 9-20 Stress Chap. 9

9.22 Compute the values of σx, σx′, σz, σz′, and τzx at Point B in Figure 9.11. The coefficient of
lateral earth pressure in the silty sand is 0.60. Draw both the total and effect stress
Mohr’s circles for Point B on the same figure.

Figure 9.11 Soil profile for Example 9.2.

Solution

σ z = ∑ γH = (15.0 )(2.0) + (16.8)(1.6 ) = 57 kPa

u = γ w z w = (9.8)(1.6 ) = 16 kPa

σ ′z = σ z − u = 57 − 16 = 41 kPa

σ ′x = Kσ z' = (0.60 )(41) = 25 kPa

σ x = σ ′x + u = 25 + 16 = 41 kPa

τ zx = 0

σx +σz 41 + 57
σm = = = 49 kPa
2 2
σ + σ z 25 + 41
σ m′ = x = = 33 kPa
2 2

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 Chap. 9 Stress 8-21

9.23 According to an in-situ soil suction measurement, the pore water pressure at Point C in
Figure 9.11 is −5.0 kPa. Compute the vertical effective stress at this point.

Solution

σ z = ∑ γH = (15.0 )(9.0 ) = 13.5 kPa

σ ′z = σ z − u = 13.5 − (− 5.0) = 18.5 kPa

9.24 Use the “overall stresses” data in the x–z plane from Example 9.9 to perform the
following computations:

(a) Draw the Mohr circles for total and effective stresses for this point and identify the
pole and the locations on the circle that represent the vertical and horizontal stresses.
(b) Compute σ1, σ3, σ1′, σ3′, and τmax.
(c) Determine the angle between the major principal stress and the vertical, then prepare
as a sketch showing the orientation of the major and minor principal stresses with
respect to the vertical.
(d) Compute σ, σ′, and τ that act on a plane inclined at an angle of 45° clockwise from
the horizontal.

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 9-22 Stress Chap. 9

Solution

(a) See plot

(b)

2
σx +σz ⎡σ − σ z ⎤
σ1 = + ⎢ x ⎥ + τ zx
2

2 ⎣ 2 ⎦
2
615 + 971 ⎡ 615 − 971⎤
= + ⎢ ⎥ + 2132
2 ⎣ 2 ⎦
= 1071 lb/ft 2

2
σx +σz ⎡σ − σ z ⎤
σ3 = − ⎢ x ⎥ + τ zx2
2 ⎣ 2 ⎦
2
615 + 971 ⎡ 615 − 971⎤
= − ⎢ ⎥ + 213
2

2 ⎣ 2 ⎦
= 515 lb/ft 2

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 Chap. 9 Stress 8-23

σ 1′ = σ 1 − u = 1071 − 125 = 946 lb/ft 2

σ 3′ = σ 3 − u = 515 − 125 = 390 lb/ft 2

σ1 − σ 3 1071 − 515
τ max = = = 278 lb/ft 2
2 2

(c)

1 ⎛ 2σ z − σ 1 − σ 3 ⎞
θ z = cos −1 ⎜⎜ ⎟⎟
2 ⎝ σ 1 − σ 3 ⎠
1 ⎛ 2(971) − 1071 − 515 ⎞
= cos −1 ⎜ ⎟
2 ⎝ 1071 − 515 ⎠
= 25°

See Plot.

(d)

θ = 45 + 25 = 70°

σ1 + σ 3 σ1 − σ 3
σ = +cos 2θ
2 2
1071 + 515 1071 − 515
= + cos 2(70°)
2 2
= 580 lb/ft 2

σ 3 + σ1 1071 − 515
τ= sin 2θ = sin 2(70°) = 179 lb/ft 2
2 2

Based on Mohr’s circle: τ = −179 lb/ft2

Section 9.9 Effective Stress Under Steady State Flow

9.25 Water is flowing vertically upward in a sand with a saturated unit weight of 20 kN/m3. At
what gradient will quick conditions occur?

Solution
Quick condition or quicksand occurs when the effective stress is zero. Using the seepage
force concept and Equation 9.53 and 9.54

σ ′z = (γ − iγ w )H − γ w H

When the effective vertical stress, σ´z, is zero, the critical gradient, icrit, is

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 9-24 Stress Chap. 9

0 = (γ − icritγ w )H − γ w H
0 = (γ − icritγ w ) − γ w
γ −γw
icrit =
γw

For this particular soil

20 − 9.8
icrit = = 1.04
9.8

As a general rule of thumb, the critical gradient can be taken to be unity in most cases.

9.26 Compute the total vertical stress, σz, and the effective vertical stress, σ'z, at Point A in
Figure 8.7.

1/3

3/4

Figure 8.7 Cross-section of trench for Examples 8.2 and 8.3. The given data is on the
left and the completed flow net is on the right.

Solution
Assuming the unit weight of the clean sand is the same as the silty sand, the total vertical
stress at Point A is

σ z = γ z = (112 lb/ft 3 )(31.5 ft + 8 ft ) = 4424 lb/ft 2

To compute the pore water pressure at Point A, we must first computed the head loss
through each cell of the flow net, hi.

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 Chap. 9 Stress 8-25

⎛ Δh ⎞ ⎛ 20 ⎞
hi = ⎜⎜ ⎟⎟ = ⎜ ⎟ = 1.225 ft/drop
⎝ N D ⎠ ⎝ 16.33 ⎠

Point A is 3.083 equipotential drops from the groundwater surface outside of the
excavation (as shown in the above figure 0.333 + 2 + 0.75). So a piezometer placed at
Point A will drop 3.083 hi or 3.083(1.225) = 3.777 ft below groundwater elevation
outside the sheet piling. Therefore, the pressure head at Point A is

h pA = (31.5 + 4 ) ft − 3.78 ft = 31.72 ft

u B = γ w h pB = 62.4 lb/ft 3 (31.72 ft ) = 1979 lb/ft 2

Effective stress

σ ′z = σ z − u = 4424 − 1979 = 2445 lb/ft 2

Comprehensive

9.27 Using K = 0.61 and assuming the major principal stress acts vertically, compute the
following at Point A in Figure 9.30.

(a) σx, σz, σx′, σz′, σ1, σ3, σ1′, σ3′, u

(b) Mohr circles for total and effective stresses
(c) σ, σ′, and τ on the plane shown in the figure

Figure 9.30 Soil profile for Problem 9.27. el. = elevation.

Solution
(a)

σ 1 = σ z = ∑ γH
= (9.8)(50.6 − 46.5) + (18.9)(46.5 − 44.5) + (19.3)(44.5 − 40.8)
= 149 kPa

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 9-26 Stress Chap. 9

u = γ w z w = (9.8)(50.6 − 40.8) = 96 kPa

σ 1′ = σ ′z = σ z − u = 149 − 96 = 53 kPa

σ 3′ = σ ′x = Kσ ′x = (0.61)(53) = 32 kPa

σ 3 = σ x = σ ′x + u = 128 kPa

(b) See Plot

(c)

σ1 − σ 3 σ1 − σ 3
σ = + cos 2θ
2 2
149 + 128 149 − 128
= + cos(2(35°))
2 2
= 142 kPa

σ ' = σ − u = 142 − 96 = 46 kPa

σ1 − σ 3 149 − 128
τ= sin 2θ = sin (2(28°)) = 10 kPa
2 2

9.28 Using the approximate methods represented by Equations 9.39 and 9.40, create a
spreadsheet to compute the induced vertical stress, Δσz, under the center of a square
loaded area and an infinitely long strip load. Using your spreadsheet develop a plot Δσz
as a function of depth under the center of a square and a strip loads of the same width, B,
with the same applied stress at the surface. Explain the differences between the stress
induced by the square load and the strip load.

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 Chap. 9 Stress 8-27

Solution
Iσ

0 0.5 1
0

1 square

2 continuous

3
zf/B

Chart above shows that the stresses induced by a continuous footing exceed those
induced by a square footing of the same width. The continuous footing stress also extends
to a much greater depth than those induced by a square footing.

9.29 Create a spreadsheet to compute the induced normal stresses Δσx, Δσy, and Δσz, at any
arbitrary point due to a point load at the ground surface using Boussinesq’s method.

Solution
See the spreadsheet Stress_Distribution.xlsx for solutions to Boussinesq’s stress
distribution under several loading conditions.

9.30 A vertical point load P is to be applied to a level ground surface. The underlying soil has
the following pre-construction characteristics:

Groundwater table: 5.5 ft below the ground surface

Unit weight above the groundwater table = 121 lb/ft3
Unit weight below the groundwater table = 124 lb/ft3
K = 0.87
ν = 0.33

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 9-28 Stress Chap. 9

The horizontal total stress, σx, at a point 8 ft below the ground surface and 3 ft east of the
point of load application must not exceed 1000 lb/ft2. Compute the maximum allowable
value of P.

Solution
We will use the lateral earth pressure coefficient, K, to compute the initial horizontal
stress, σx0, and then use the Bousinesq solution to compute the increase in horizontal
stress due to the applied load, P.

σ ′z 0 = ∑ γH − u
= (121)(5.5) + (124 − 62.4 )(2.5)
= 819.5 lb/ft 2

σ x = kσ ′z + u
= (0.87 )(819.5) + (62.4)(2.5)
= 869 lb/ft 2

Δσ x,allowable = 1000 − 869 = 131 lb/ft 2

We could use Equation 9.23 and a trial and error method to determine the applied load, P,
that would produce Δσx, allowable. However we will use the spreadsheet
Stress_Distribution.xlsx

Using the spreadsheet P = 352 kips

9.31 A 21.0 m diameter oil tank is to be built on a soil that has γ = 18.4 kN/m3, K = 0.60, and
ν = 0.40. The tank and its contents have a total mass of 3.70×106 kg, and the bottom of
the tank is flush with the ground surface. The groundwater table is at a great depth.
Compute the geostatic vertical total and effective stress, the induce vertical stress and
final total and effective vertical stresses for following two points:

(d) 8.0 m below the center of the tank

(e) 8.0 m below the east edge of the tank.

Solution

( )( )
P = Mg = 3.7 × 10 6 kg 9.8 m/s 2 = 36.3 × 10 3 kN

2
⎛ 21.0 ⎞ 2
A = π⎜ ⎟ = 346 m
⎝ 2 ⎠

P 36.3 × 10 3
q= = = 105 kPa
A 346

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 Chap. 9 Stress 8-29

σ ′z = ∑ γH − u
= (18.4 )(8) + 0
= 147 kPa

Since, Groundwater is at great depth effective stress is equal to total stress.

(a) 8.0m below center of tank.

zf 8.0
= = 0.38
B 21.0

From Figure 9.13:

I σ = 0.75
Δσ z = I σ q = 0.75(105 kPa ) = 79 kPa

σ z ,total = 147 + 79 = 226 kPa

(b) 8.0m below edge of tank.

zf 8.0
= = 0.38
B 21.0

xf 10.5
= = 0.50
B 21.0

From Figure 9.13:

Iσ = 0.39
Δσ z = Iσ q = 0.39(105 kPa ) = 41 kPa

σ z ,total = 147 + 41 = 188 kPa

9.32 A proposed 5 ft × 5 ft spread footing foundation will support an office building. The
column load plus the weight of the foundation will be 80 k, and the bottom of the
foundation will be 2 ft below the ground surface. The unit weight of the soil is 121 lb/ft3
and the groundwater table is at a depth of 5 feet. Develop a plot of the vertical effective
stress below the center of this foundation versus depth (after the footing has been placed
and loaded). Consider depths from the bottom of the footing to 15 ft below the bottom of
the footing.

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 9-30 Stress Chap. 9

Solution

P 80,000
q= = 2
= 3200 lb/ft 2
A 5

σ'z0 Δσz σ'z

z (ft) zf (ft) (lb/ft2) (lb/ft2) (lb/ft2)
2 0 242 3200 3442
3 1 363 3073 3436
4 2 484 2559 3043
5 3 605 1941 2546
6 4 664 1438 2101
7 5 722 1076 1798
8 6 781 822 1603
9 7 839 642 1482
10 8 898 513 1411
11 9 957 418 1374
12 10 1015 346 1361
13 11 1074 291 1364
14 12 1132 247 1380
15 13 1191 213 1402
16 14 1250 185 1435
17 15 1308 162 1470

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 Chap. 9 Stress 8-31

9.33 The data in the following table were obtained from three borings at a certain site. The
ground surface is level, and the groundwater table is at a depth of 3.7 m below the ground
surface.

Develop a representative one-dimensional design soil profile for this site, similar
to the one in Figure 3.38. Then develop plots of total vertical stress, pore water pressure,
and effective vertical stress vs. depth. All three plots should be superimposed on the
same diagram, with the vertical axis (depth) increasing in the downward direction.
To develop the one-dimensional design soil profile, convert the information from
the table into three boring logs. Then compare these logs, looking for similar soil types,
and combine them into a single representative profile. Then use the γd and w values to
compute the average unit weight for each strata. Keep in mind that computations of the
total stress are based on the unit weight, γ, not the dry unit weight, γd .

Boring Depth Soil Classification Dry Unit Weight Moisture Content

(m) (kN/m3) (%)
1 0.6 Medium sand (SP) 18.1 8.2
1 1.2 Fine to medium sand (SW) 17.9 8.0
1 2.1 Medium sand (SP) 18.7 8.9
1 2.7 Silty sand (SM) 18.4 10.3
1 3.3 Silty sand (SM) 18.5 11.0
1 4.3 Sandy gravel (GW) 19.6 12.0
1 5.2 Gravel (GP) 19.9 11.4
1 6.1 Sandy silt (ML) 17.1 19.5
1 6.7 Silty clay (CL) 16.5 21.7
1 7.6 Silty clay (CL) 16.3 22.0
2 0.9 Fine sand (SP) 17.6 7.5
2 1.5 Fine sand (SP) 17.4 9.1
2 2.1 Fine to medium sand (SW) 18.7 9.5
2 2.7 Fine sand (SP) 18.2 9.9
2 3.7 Sandy silt (ML) 17.6 11.9
2 4.9 Gravel (GP) 19.9 11.0
2 6.1 Silt (ML) 16.2 22.8
3 1.2 Fine to medium sand (SW) 18.2 8.0
3 2.7 Silty sand (SM) 17.8 8.1
3 4.3 Gravelly sand (SW) 19.2 13.4
3 5.8 Silty clay (CL) 16.0 23.2
3 7.3 Clay (CL) 15.4 25.9

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 9-32 Stress Chap. 9

Solution

9.34 A point load is to be applied near an existing retaining wall as shown in Figure 9.31.
Develop plots of the geostatic and induced horizontal contact pressure, σx, acting on the
wall at the following immediately adjacent to the point load.

Figure 9.31 Cross section of retaining wall for Problem 9.34.

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 Chap. 9 Stress 8-33

Solution
The effective geostatic horizontal stress, σ´x0, is computed as

σ ′x 0 = Kσ ′z 0
= Kγz − u

Since there is no groundwater present, u = 0 and

σ ′x 0 = Kγz

Where

K = 0.36
γ = 19.5 kN/m3

The induce horizontal stress, Δσx, is computed using Equation 9.24 with

P =350 kN
xf = 1 m
yf = 0

Using the above information and the spreadsheet Stress_Distribution.xlsx to compute Δσx,
we can compute the following values.

σz0 σx0 Δσx σx

z (ft) (lb/ft2) (lb/ft2) (lb/ft2) (lb/ft2)
0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
0.20 3.90 1.40 12.39 13.79
0.40 7.80 2.81 32.12 34.93
0.60 11.70 4.21 35.67 39.88
0.80 15.60 5.62 30.45 36.07
1.00 19.50 7.02 23.02 30.04
1.20 23.40 8.42 16.40 24.82
1.40 27.30 9.83 11.37 21.20
1.60 31.20 11.23 7.79 19.03
1.80 35.10 12.64 5.32 17.96
2.00 39.00 14.04 3.63 17.67
2.20 42.90 15.44 2.46 17.91
2.40 46.80 16.85 1.66 18.51
2.60 50.70 18.25 1.10 19.36
2.80 54.60 19.66 0.72 20.37
3.00 58.50 21.06 0.44 21.50

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 9-34 Stress Chap. 9

Which plot as:

9.35 When combining stresses from multiple sources, Equation 9.35 instructs us to combine
the total stresses using superposition, then subtract the pore water pressure. Why would
it be incorrect to compute the various effective stresses, then combine them by
superposition?

Solution
If we computed the effective stress from each source, then combined them by
superposition, we would implicitly by subtracting the pore water pressure for each source,
rather than only once. This would be incorrect. Therefore, we must combine the total
stresses by superposition, and then subtract the pore water pressure to find the effective
stress.

9.36 An excavation similar to the one in Figure 8.7 has recently been constructed and
dewatered. Unfortunately, this excavation is beginning to show signs of incipient heave
and/or quicksand problems. An analysis similar to the one in Example 9.8 confirms that
this is a potential problem.

As an emergency measure, the contractor is proposing to remove the dewatering

pumps, and fill the excavation with water. Evaluate this proposal and prepare a 200–300

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 Chap. 9 Stress 8-35

word essay describing why this method would or would not provide temporary relief
from the heave and quicksand problem.

Solution
According to the discussion in Section 9.9, the vertical effective stress becomes zero
when the upward seepage force exceeds the downward vertical stress due to the effective
weight of the soil. Apparently this has occurred, or is about to occur, in the soils at the
bottom of this excavation, because they are showing signs of heave or quicksand. This is
a potentially catastrophic condition, because it can lead to collapse of the excavation.
Therefore, it is quite appropriate to implement some type of emergency measure to
rectify the situation.
The only ways to stop the imminent collapse are to increase the vertical stress in
the soil, or decrease the vertical seepage force. The contractor’s proposal to fill the
excavation with water will reduce or eliminate the difference in head between the
excavation and the surrounding groundwater, and thus will slow down or stop the flow of
groundwater into the excavation. This will reduce or eliminate the upward seepage forces
in the soils below the excavation, and thus eliminate the danger of heave or quicksand.
This appears to be a good solution to the problem, because it can be implemented
very quickly, without the need for mobilizing any special equipment. Once the
excavation has been flooded, the problem will be temporally solved, and the contractor
will have time to search for a permanent solution. This might consist of grouting the
underlying soils, installing well points around the excavation, or other methods.
The primary disadvantage of flooding the excavation is that the water may ruin
the work completed to date. However, this may be unavoidable.

9.37 A point load and a square area load are to be applied to the ground surface as shown in
Figure 9.32. Develop a plot of σz′ versus depth below Point A. This plot should contain
two curves: one that represents the pre-construction condition (i.e., without the applied
loads) and one that represents the post-construction condition. The plot should extend
from the ground surface to the bottom of the fat clay stratum.

Solution

P 900
q= = = 225 kPa
A 2.0 2

Using the spreadsheet Stress_Distribution.xlsx, the following stresses were computed.

All stresses and pressures in kPa

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 9-36 Stress Chap. 9

Induced Stresses
Depth Pre-Construction Point Area Post-Construction
(m) u σx σ'x σz σ'z Δσx Δσz Δσx Δσz σx σ'x σz σ'z
0.5 0 5 5 9 9 68 22 6 1 79 79 32 32
1.0 0 11 11 17 17 44 55 15 5 70 70 77 77
1.5 0 16 16 26 26 18 55 14 9 70 48 90 90
2.0 5 23 18 35 30 7 44 12 12 48 37 91 86
2.5 10 31 21 44 34 3 34 8 13 42 32 91 81
3.0 15 39 24 53 38 1 26 6 13 46 31 92 77
3.5 20 49 29 63 43 0 21 5 13 54 34 97 77
4.0 24 57 33 72 48 0 17 4 12 61 37 101 77
4.5 29 65 36 82 53 0 14 3 11 68 39 107 78
5.0 34 73 39 91 57 0 11 2 10 75 41 112 78
6.0 44 89 45 110 66 0 8 1 8 90 46 126 82
7.0 54 111 57 129 75 0 6 1 6 112 58 141 87
8.1 65 129 64 150 85 0 5 0 5 129 64 160 95

9.38 A truck stop is to be built on a parcel of land adjacent to a major highway. During the
planning stage of this project, the engineers found an existing 6 ft by 6 ft concrete box
culvert under the proposed truck parking area, as shown in Figure 9.33. The project
engineer is concerned that the weight of the parked trucks may overstress it, and has
asked you to compute the vertical pressures acting on the top of the culvert. The results
of your analyses will be provided to a structural engineer, who will then develop shear

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 Chap. 9 Stress 8-37

and moment diagrams and determine if the culvert can safely support the weight of the
trucks.

(c) Compute the vertical pressure acting on the top of the culvert due to the weight of the
overlying soil without any trucks. This is the same as the geostatic vertical stress at
this depth, and represents the current condition. Use a unit weight of 120 lb/ft3 and
assume the groundwater table is at a depth of 45 ft.
(d) Compute the vertical pressure acting on the top of the culvert due to the wheel loads
from a parked truck. This is the same as the induced vertical stress in the soil. Base
your computations on two axles 48 inches apart, with the truck aligned parallel to the
culvert. Perform all computations in the x-z plane of the first axle (i.e., y = 0 for the
first axle, and y = 48 in for the second). Each axle carries a total vertical load of
18,000 lb, which is evenly divided among its four wheels. You may assume each
wheel acts as a point load. Repeat this computation for several values of x along the
top of the culvert, then present your results in the form of a pressure diagram.
(e) Using superposition, combine the results from parts a and b.
Note: The culvert is stiffer than the soil, so the Boussinesq solution gives an approximate
solution to this problem. A more precise analysis would need to consider the ratio of
modulii of elasticity in the soil and the culvert, and is beyond the scope of this book (see
Poulos and Davis, 1974).

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 9-38 Stress Chap. 9

Solution
(a) σ z = γH = (120)(2) = 240 lb/ft 2
18,000 lb
(b) P/tire = = 4500 lb
4
The induced stresses from the right wheels are small and will be neglected.

σz,induced
Rear Axle Front Axle
x Outside Inside Outside Inside
(ft) wheel Wheel wheel Wheel Sum Total
0 10 4 2 1 17 257
1 28 10 4 2 44 284
2 95 28 6 4 133 373
3 307 95 9 6 417 657
4 537 307 10 9 863 1103
5 307 537 9 10 863 1103
6 95 307 6 9 417 657
(c)

9.39 The excavation shown in Figure 9.34 is to be made in a river. When the normal water
level is present in the river, the hydraulic gradient at the bottom of the excavation is low
enough to provide a sufficient margin of safety against heaving and quicksand. However,
if the river rises to the design flood level, the hydraulic gradient will increase to 1.1,
which will probably cause problems.

To provide sufficient protection against heave and quicksand, a gravel blanket is

to be placed in the bottom of the excavation. This gravel, which has a unit weight of
20.2 kN/m3, will increase the effective stress in the underlying natural soils. However,
because of its high hydraulic conductivity, the hydraulic gradient in the gravel will be
very small, so the seepage force will be negligible. Thus, the gravel blanket will help

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 Chap. 9 Stress 8-39

protect the excavation against heave. The design requires a vertical effective stress of at
least 25 kPa in the upper 3 m of soil. Determine the minimum required thickness of the
gravel blanket.

Figure 9.34 Cross-section for Problem 9.39

Solution

j = iγ w = (1.1)(9.8) = 10.8 kN/m3

σ ′z = ∑ [(γ − j )H ] − u
25 kPa = (20.0 − 0 )H + (17.2 − 10.8)3 − 9.8(H + 3)

Solving for H

H = 3.4 m

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from the publisher prior to any prohibited reproduction, storage in a retrieval system, or transmission in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying,
recording, or likewise. For information regarding permission(s), write to: Rights and Permissions Department, Pearson Education, Inc., Upper Saddle River, NJ 07458.