General Contractor Practice Exam

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For proper building design, what is the effect of swell factor on excavated soil?

Reduces total soil weight
Increases total volume of soil
Decreases total volume of soil
No effect on volume

The correct answer is: Increases total volume of soil

The swell factor refers to the increase in volume that occurs when soil is excavated and allowed to expand. This phenomenon happens because the compacted soil, when excavated, finds spaces in between particles that were previously filled in when the soil was compacted. As a result, the soil occupies more space once it is disturbed, leading to an increase in total volume. Understanding the swell factor helps in estimating the amount of soil that will need to be managed during a construction project. When planning for excavation, contractors must take into account this increased volume to ensure that there is enough space to accommodate all of the excavated material, which may influence site planning and logistics. Properly accounting for the swell factor is crucial for effective building design and project execution.