Civil Engineering Fundamentals

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@RecordSettingParallelism

Study Notes

Dr. Karl von Terzaghi

Recognized as the Father of Soil Mechanics, laying foundational principles in civil engineering.

Bridge-Pier Loading

Four types of bridge-pier loading include:
- Vertical Loads: Forces acting straight down.
- Inclined Loads: Forces acting at an angle.
- Inclined Tensions: Tension forces acting at an angle.
- Horizontal Thrusts: Forces acting horizontally, impacting stability.

Bridge Abutments

Abutments must support at least part of the structural loads of a bridge.
Those located on sloping ground need special design considerations for stability.

Sir Sanford Fleming

A designer known for contributions to civil engineering, predicting safety measures in construction.

Grouting

A critical technique in civil engineering, especially for building dam foundations.
Developed by Albert François to improve structural integrity by filling gaps.

Water Supply

Involves the study of water distribution, movement, and quality.
The fall of rain serves as the primary source for most water supplies.

Water Conduit and Cistern

Water Conduit: Channels or pipes that transport water.
Cistern: An underground reservoir for storing water.

Water Cycle Dynamics

Evaporation occurs when sunlight heats water.
Surface runoff refers to water flowing over land surfaces.
Vegetation intercepts some rainfall, impacting water availability.
Percolation involves water absorption into the soil.

Rainfall Records and Stream Gauging

Records provide data on the frequency, intensity, and duration of rainfall.
Stream gauging measures discharge rates in bodies of water.

Hard Water

Contains high concentrations of dissolved minerals, classified into two types:
- Temporary Hard Water: Removable by boiling.
- Permanent Hard Water: Remains unchanged when boiled.

Soft Water

Characterized by low mineral content, making it more suitable for certain household uses.

Specific Uses of Hard and Soft Water

Hard Water:
- Drinking and Cooking
- Gardening
Soft Water:
- Cleaning and Laundry
- Bathing, Appliances, and Plumbing

Porous Stratum

Refers to layers of rock capable of holding and transmitting water.

Water Management Concepts

Water Storage: Dams built across rivers or streams for reservoir creation.
Water Collection: Reservoirs gather significant amounts of water.
Water Treatment: Processes ensure safety before water reaches consumers.

Groundwater Recharge

Natural Recharge: Groundwater replenishment through natural processes.
Artificial Recharge: Intentional efforts to increase groundwater levels.
Various methods for recharge include:
- Spreading Basins: Surface flooding techniques.
- Recharge Pits and Shafts: Used effectively with low-permeability lenses.

Description

Test your knowledge of civil engineering basics, including the father of soil mechanics, types of bridge-pier loading, and crucial techniques like grouting. Learn about key figures and concepts in the field.

Civil Engineering Fundamentals

Podcast

Questions and Answers

Who is credited with developing the technique of grouting?

What is the term for the water that flows over the land surface after a rainfall event?

What is the primary purpose of grouting in civil engineering?

What is the term for the underground reservoir that stores water?

What type of hard water can be removed by boiling the water?

What is the purpose of stream gauging in water supply?

What type of water is suitable for cleaning and laundry?

What is the purpose of a reservoir in the water supply process?

What is the term for the layer of rock that allows water to pass through?

Which method of groundwater recharge involves surface flooding of water?

What is the term for the intentional human effort to replenish groundwater?