What is the difference between dynamic and static soil testing?

Dynamic soil testing is characterized by the application of impact or cyclic loads to the soil, allowing for the evaluation of how the soil behaves under rapid loading conditions. This type of testing simulates the effects of dynamic events, such as earthquakes or machinery vibrations, and is particularly useful in understanding soil stiffness, strength, and the potential for liquefaction in saturated soils.

In contrast, static testing involves applying loads gradually to the soil until failure occurs. This method typically assesses the soil's strength and deformation properties under controlled loading conditions, which is valuable for studying the long-term performance of soil under foundational and structural loads.

By focusing on these differing methodologies, dynamic testing can provide insights into the behavior of soils under immediate stresses, while static testing offers a more comprehensive view of how soils will perform under sustained loads. Each type of testing is crucial for different applications in the field of geotechnical engineering.