ASTM D2487 Soil Classification Quiz

Questions and Answers

What is ASTM D2487?

Classification of soils for engineering purposes - Unified Soil Classification System (USCS)

What is the definition of clay in terms of sieve size and plasticity index?

Soil passing through no. 200 sieve with a plasticity index equal to or greater than 4 and the plot of plasticity index versus liquid limit falls on or above the A-line.

What defines gravel in terms of sieve size?

Particles of rock passing through a 3 inch sieve and retained on a no. 4.

What defines sand in terms of sieve size?

<p>Particles that pass through a no. 4 sieve but are retained on a no. 200 sieve.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What defines silt in terms of sieve size?

<p>Soil passing through a no. 200 sieve.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

ASTM D2487 Overview

ASTM D2487 pertains to the classification of soils for engineering purposes using the Unified Soil Classification System (USCS).
This system aids in understanding soil behavior and selecting appropriate engineering solutions.

Clay Characteristics

Clay consists of soil particles that pass through a No. 200 sieve.
A plasticity index (PI) of 4 or greater is required for classification as clay.
On a plasticity index versus liquid limit graph, clay plots lie on or above the A-line, indicating its behavior in relation to water content.

Gravel Specifications

Gravel includes particles of rock that pass through a 3-inch sieve and are retained on a No. 4 sieve.
Essential for various construction and engineering applications, gravel serves as a foundational material.

Sand Definitions

Sand is characterized by soil particles that pass through a No. 4 sieve but are retained on a No. 200 sieve.
The size and texture of sand make it suitable for drainage and as a component in concrete mixtures.

Silt Identification

Silt comprises soil that passes through a No. 200 sieve with a plasticity index that must be specified (not provided in the original text).
Silt is typically finer than sand but coarser than clay, influencing soil behavior and properties.

Description

Test your knowledge on ASTM D2487 and the Unified Soil Classification System (USCS). This quiz highlights key concepts, such as definitions and classifications related to soil, clay, and gravel. Enhance your understanding of soil properties essential for engineering purposes.