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Angle of Shearing Resistance given Bearing Capacity Factor Calculator

Angle of Shearing Resistance Formula:

\[ \phi = \cot^{-1}\left(\frac{N_c}{N_q - 1}\right) \]

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1. What is Angle of Shearing Resistance?

Definition: The angle of shearing resistance (φ) is a measure of the shear strength of soils, representing the frictional resistance between soil particles.

Purpose: It's a critical parameter in geotechnical engineering for analyzing soil stability and bearing capacity.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ \phi = \cot^{-1}\left(\frac{N_c}{N_q - 1}\right) \]

Where:

  • \( \phi \) — Angle of shearing resistance (degrees)
  • \( N_c \) — Bearing capacity factor dependent on cohesion
  • \( N_q \) — Bearing capacity factor dependent on surcharge

Explanation: The formula relates the bearing capacity factors to the fundamental soil property of internal friction.

3. Importance of Angle of Shearing Resistance

Details: This angle is crucial for designing foundations, retaining walls, and slope stability analysis. Higher values indicate more stable soils.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the bearing capacity factors Nc and Nq, and the tolerance percentage (default ±5%). All values must be positive.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are typical values for Nc and Nq?
A: Nc typically ranges from 5 to 37, while Nq ranges from 1 to 23, depending on soil type and conditions.

Q2: Why include a tolerance percentage?
A: Soil properties can vary, so the tolerance provides a practical range accounting for natural variability.

Q3: How is this angle measured in practice?
A: Through laboratory tests like direct shear tests or triaxial tests on soil samples.

Q4: What's the relationship between φ and soil type?
A: Cohesive soils (clay) have lower φ values (0-30°), while granular soils (sand, gravel) have higher values (30-50°).

Q5: Can this formula be used for all soil types?
A: It works best for cohesionless soils. For cohesive soils, additional factors like undrained shear strength should be considered.

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