GATE CE 2024 Set 2 — Question 40

MCQ+2 / -0.67MediumPassive Earth PressureEarth PressureGeotechnical EngineeringEffect of Surcharge

Geotechnical Engineering → Earth Pressure → Effect of Surcharge

Last updated 5 September 2026

Question

Consider the statements P and Q related to the analysis/design of retaining walls. P : When a rough retaining wall moves toward the backfill, the wall friction force/resistance mobilizes in upward direction along the wall. Q : Most of the earth pressure theories calculate the earth pressure due to surcharge by neglecting the actual distribution of stresses due to surcharge. Which one of the following options is CORRECT ?

Correct answer (A) Both P and Q are TRUE Solution Statement P is TRUE: In the passive state (wall moving toward the backfill), the soil wedge tends to move upward relative to the wall. Consequently, the wall friction force on the wall acts in the upward direction. Statement Q is TRUE: Classical earth pressure theories like Rankine's and Coulomb's typically assume a uniform increase in lateral pressure due to surcharge, effectively neglecting the complex stress distribution (like Boussinesq's) that occurs in reality. Turn this into a strength. Explore AI-powered practice and doubt support with Success Tracker.

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Correct answer (A) Both P and Q are TRUE Solution Statement P is TRUE: In the passive state (wall moving toward the backfill), the soil wedge tends to move upward relative to the wall. Consequently, the wall friction force on the wall acts in the upward direction. Statement Q is TRUE: Classical earth pressure theories like Rankine's and Coulomb's typically assume a uniform increase in lateral pressure due to surcharge, effectively neglecting the complex stress distribution (like Boussinesq's) that occurs in reality.

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