Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

What is the difference between contractivity and contractibility in soil mechanics?

Hello!

Thank you for your question!

Generally, contractibility refers to the ability of a substance to become smaller, narrower, shorter, etc., whereas contractivity refers to the ability of a substance to contract – both are almost synonymous in nature.

I am not aware of contractibility in soil mechanics, but contractive soils are characterized by their susceptibility to liquefaction and their decrease in volume when shear is increased; the direct opposite phenomenon of contractive soils is dilative soils. This excerpt from a civil engineering textbook may be helpful for you if you would like more information about contractivity in soils: https://eng.libretexts.org/Bookshelves/ ... id%20ratio.

Would you mind elaborating on the specific applications of soil contractivity and contractibility you are looking for so that we can best help you?

Thanks,
Anika