GATE CE 2023 Set 1 — Question 40

MCQ+2 / -0.67EasyCompaction of SoilsEffective Stress & CompactionGeotechnical EngineeringOMC & MDD

Geotechnical Engineering → Effective Stress & Compaction → Compaction of Soils

Last updated 5 September 2026

Question

With reference to the compaction test conducted on soils, which of the following is INCORRECT ?

Correct answer (D) Compaction curve crosses the zero-air-voids curve Solution The zero-air-voids (ZAV) curve represents the theoretical maximum dry unit weight for a given moisture content when there is no air in the soil (100% saturation). The compaction curve always lies to the left of and below the ZAV curve. It can never cross it because that would imply a degree of saturation greater than 100%, which is physically impossible. Turn this into a strength. Explore AI-powered practice and doubt support with Success Tracker.

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Correct answer (D) Compaction curve crosses the zero-air-voids curve Solution The zero-air-voids (ZAV) curve represents the theoretical maximum dry unit weight for a given moisture content when there is no air in the soil (100% saturation). The compaction curve always lies to the left of and below the ZAV curve. It can never cross it because that would imply a degree of saturation greater than 100%, which is physically impossible.

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