Objectives
To demonstrate the process of soil liquefaction by simulating the effects of water saturation and
movement on sand stability.
To observe and analyze how external forces, such as shaking or displacement, impact water-
saturated soil and its ability to support structures
Introduction
Liquefaction occurs when loose, water-saturated soil loses its strength due to external forces such as
shaking or sudden movement, causing it to behave like a liquid. This phenomenon is commonly observed
during earthquakes and can lead to structural damage as buildings and other structures sink or tilt. In
this experiment, the process of liquefaction is simulated by adding water to sand and applying
movement, demonstrating how the stability of the ground is affected by these conditions.
By placing a bottle in the sand and moving it while gradually adding water, changes in the sand’s stability
can be observed. As the sand becomes saturated, it loses its firmness, mimicking the effects of
liquefaction during seismic activity. This experiment provides a visual representation of how excessive
water and movement can weaken soil, emphasizing the importance of understanding liquefaction in
construction and engineering.
Materials
Water basin (large enough to hold sand and water)
Marker (for marking water levels)
Water (for saturation)
Sand (to fill the basin)
Plastic bottle (to simulate movement in the sand)
Pail or container (for transferring water)
Procedure:
1. Mark 3/4 of the basin’s height using a marker.
2. Pour water into the basin until it reaches the marked level.
3. Transfer the water into another container (e.g., a pail).
4. Fill the basin with sand up to the marked height.
5. Place a bottle in the center, ensuring 3/4 of its height is submerged in the sand.
6. Gradually pour water into the sand while simultaneously moving the bottle in a push-pull
motion.
7. Observe changes and repeat for three trials.
Precautionary Measures:
Handle water carefully to avoid spills and ensure accurate results.
Perform the experiment on a stable surface to prevent unintended disturbances.
