1.1 INTRODUCTION
In this section, we learn that soils are not just simple dirt – they are complex, natural materials made up of many different components. This chapter sets the stage by explaining that soils come in various compositions and have particles of different sizes, which play a big role in how strong the soil is and how it behaves under pressure.
Understanding soil composition and particle sizes is very important because it helps us know how well a soil can support buildings and other structures. For example, if you build something heavy, you want to be sure the soil beneath it can handle the weight without settling or causing damage.
The chapter covers several important learning outcomes:
- How soils form naturally over time.
- The various components that make up soils, such as minerals, organic matter, and water.
- Methods to determine the distribution of particle sizes in a soil sample.
- How to read and understand grading curves, which are graphs that show the sizes of particles in the soil.
By the end of this chapter, you will have a clear understanding of these topics, making it easier to see how the tiny parts of the soil add up to affect the big picture of construction and engineering projects.
