In a direct shear test, the failure plane is:
Choose the correct answer
The plane of maximum principal stress
Forced (predetermined) along the horizontal split plane of the shear box
At 45 + φ/2 angle
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Correct Answer
B. Forced (predetermined) along the horizontal split plane of the shear box
Why is this the answer?
Direct shear test (DSB): forced on a predetermined horizontal plane (splitting the box). Advantage: simple, quick, well-drained test on sands. Disadvantage: failure plane is forced, not on the plane of maximum stress obliquity; drainage not fully controlled; stress non-uniform at failure. Gives c and φ by plotting τ vs σ at failure for different normal loads.
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