Cohesive Force along Slip Plane Calculator

Cohesive Force Formula:

\[ F_c = c_m \times L \]

Cohesive Force (kN):

1. What is Cohesive Force along Slip Plane?

Definition: This calculator determines the cohesive force acting along a potential slip plane in soil mechanics, based on mobilized cohesion and slip plane length.

Purpose: It helps geotechnical engineers and geologists evaluate slope stability and potential failure surfaces.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ F_c = c_m \times L \]

Where:

\( F_c \) — Cohesive force along slip plane (kN)
\( c_m \) — Mobilized cohesion in soil (kN/m²)
\( L \) — Length of slip plane (m)

Explanation: The cohesive force is calculated by multiplying the mobilized cohesion (soil's shear strength) by the length of the potential failure plane.

3. Importance of Cohesive Force Calculation

Details: Proper calculation helps assess slope stability, design retaining structures, and prevent landslides or soil failures.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter mobilized cohesion (typically 5-50 kN/m² for soils) and slip plane length (measured along potential failure surface). Both values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is mobilized cohesion?
A: It's the portion of soil's cohesive strength that is resisting shear stress at a given moment, typically less than peak cohesion.

Q2: Why ±5% tolerance?
A: Soil properties naturally vary; this accounts for uncertainty in cohesion measurements and slip plane determination.

Q3: How do I determine slip plane length?
A: Through geotechnical investigation, slope geometry analysis, or using software that identifies critical failure surfaces.

Q4: What units should I use?
A: Use consistent units: kN/m² for cohesion, meters for length, resulting in kN for cohesive force.

Q5: Does this include other resisting forces?
A: No, this calculates only cohesive resistance. Frictional resistance should be calculated separately and added for total shear strength.