Part 1: Soil Stability Test Materials : Each group will need a ramp, different types of soil, and rock gravel. Experiment Setup : Start with the ramp in a flat position. Place a sample of one type of soil or gravel on the ramp. Gradually increase the angle of the ramp until the sample starts to slide down. Record the angle at which the sample begins to move. Repeat this test three times for each type of material and calculate the average angle at which each sample starts to move. Record Results : On a table record the angles that you were hold the samples and their changes. Note which material stays in place the longest before sliding down. Consider why this might be the case. Water Test : Return the ramp to an angle slightly below the average angle or around 25◦ at which the sample moved during the first test. Place the sample back on the ramp and add water to the material. Observe whether the water causes the sample to move more easily or stay in place. Record the results on the table. Questions : Question 1 : Which material stayed in place at the steepest angle? Why do you think that is? Question 2 : How did adding water affect the stability of the material? Did it increase or decrease the likelihood of movement? Question 3: What natural process does this test represent?
Part 2: Designing a Soil Retention Solution Designing a Solution : Discuss as a group and brainstorm three potential designs for soil retention solutions on a slope (e.g. terracing, retaining walls, or ground cover plants). Choose one design to create a prototype. Construction : Use the available materials to construct your chosen soil retention design on the ramp. Test the design to see how well it holds the soil in place. Evaluation : Question 4 : Compare your soil retention solution to the original tests from Part 1. How does it improve or hinder the stability of the soil? Why did you choose this particular method? Question 5 : What are the advantages and disadvantages of your design in terms of soil retention?
Homework Read Chapter 8 Section 2 & 3 Remember last day of Unit Quiz 2 Before You Leave! Hand ins: Last weeks Lab work Any late work