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An analysis of the condition of complete bearing capacity failure is usually termed as ___________
General shear failure
Terzaghi’s analysis
Bearing failure
All of the mentioned
General shear failure
General shear failure is characterized by the sudden and catastrophic collapse of the soil mass beneath a foundation. It occurs in dense sand or stiff clay where the soil reaches a well-defined state of plastic equilibrium before rupture.
General shear failure is characterized by the sudden and catastrophic collapse of the soil mass beneath a foundation. It occurs in dense sand or stiff clay where the soil reaches a well-defined state of plastic equilibrium before rupture.
qu=cNc+qNq+0.5γBNγ — Terzaghi's bearing capacity equation for general shear failure
In general shear failure, the soil experiences a sudden, excessive settlement and tipping of the foundation. A continuous plastic failure surface develops, extending from the edges of the footing up to the ground surface. This failure mode is marked by a distinct bulging of the soil around the footing, followed by the appearance of a heave in the surface.
Typical for dense sands (Dr>70%) and stiff clays.
The load-settlement curve shows a sudden break or drop.
A continuous failure surface forms up to the ground level.
Sudden tilt and rapid settlement are characteristic features.
Predictable in stiff/dense soil
Formula-based analysis is well-established
Catastrophic failure mode
Requires high safety factors for design
Design of shallow foundations on dense soils
Geotechnical risk assessment
Other modes include Local Shear Failure (typical of medium-dense sand) and Punching Shear Failure (typical of loose sand).
Option B refers to the creator of the theory, not the failure type itself.
Option C is a broad category rather than the specific condition analysis.
A is correct — General shear failure represents the condition of complete bearing capacity failure characterized by a well-defined failure surface and sudden collapse.
Always verify soil density: if the void ratio is low and relative density is high, assume General Shear Failure for your design calculations.