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GATE 2021 CE (CE2) – Question 20

Geotechnical Engineering · Shear strength, Mohr circle, stress-strain characteristics, stress paths · 1 mark · Multiple choice

Which triaxial test best assesses long-term stability of an excavated clay slope?

  1. Consolidated drained
  2. Unconsolidated undrained
  3. Consolidated undrained
  4. Unconfined compression

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Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: (A) Consolidated drained

Explanation

Long-term behaviour allows excess pore pressure to dissipate, so effective-stress drained strength governs. A consolidated-drained test replicates this condition directly. Undrained tests chiefly represent short-term loading unless supplemented with pore-pressure measurements and appropriate effective-stress analysis. **Answer: A.**