Based on Terzaghi’s bearing capacity equation, there are three components in contribution to the bearing capacity:
(i) Surcharge pressure
Foundations are normally not placed directly on the ground level. Instead, they are installed at a depth below the existing ground level. The soil pressure arising from the depth of soils serves as a surcharge imposing a uniform pressure at foundation level.
(ii) Self-weight of soils
The self-weight of soils contribute to the bearing capacity and is represented by 0.5rBNr (r=density of soils).
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(iii) Shear strength
The shear strength of soils contributes to the bearing capacity and is represented by cNc.
This question is taken from book named – A Closer Look at Prevailing Civil Engineering Practice – What, Why and How by Vincent T. H. CHU.
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