Question

The earth pressure distribution on braced sheeting is based on

• A. Rankine's theory
• B. Coulomb's theory
• C. Brinch Hansen's theory
• D. Empirical pressure diagrams inferred from experimental observations

Hint:

Braced excavations are commonly designed using \[ \boxed{\text{Peck's Apparent Earth Pressure Diagrams}} \] which are based on field observations rather than classical earth pressure theories.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Recall the basis of braced excavation design. The pressure distribution on braced cuts does not follow the classical Rankine or Coulomb theories exactly because the supports deform during excavation.

Step 2: Identify the design basis. Design of braced sheeting is based on empirical apparent pressure diagrams developed from field measurements and experimental observations (Peck's apparent earth pressure diagrams). Hence, \[ \boxed{\text{Empirical pressure diagrams inferred from experimental observations}} \] is the correct answer. Therefore, \[ \boxed{(D)} \] is the correct answer.