GATE 2017 CE (CE2) – Question 16
A rigid retaining wall has partially submerged cohesionless backfill with surcharge. Which diagram most closely represents Rankine active earth-pressure distribution against the wall?
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Correct answer: MTA
Explanation
The final key awards marks to all. Uniform surcharge creates a nonzero surface intercept $K_aq$. Effective soil pressure increases with depth; below groundwater its slope is $K_a\gamma^\prime$, and total lateral pressure additionally includes hydrostatic pressure. The drawings do not unambiguously specify effective versus total pressure or consistently represent the intercept and slopes, so no unique choice is imposed.