earth pressure theories

Earth pressure theories analyze how soil exerts force against walls or structures built within or against it. They help engineers design walls, foundations, and supports by predicting the horizontal force soil will push. These theories consider factors like soil type, slope, and water content. Common models include Rankine’s and Coulomb’s theories, which estimate different pressure distributions based on soil conditions and wall friction. Understanding earth pressure is essential for ensuring stability and safety in construction, preventing walls from collapsing or shifting under soil loads.