What is the purpose of a Terzaghi consolidation test?

The Terzaghi consolidation test is specifically designed to evaluate soil compressibility and settlement characteristics. This test measures how much a soil sample will consolidate or compress under a given load over time, providing insights into how soil will behave under structural loads. This information is critical for engineers and geotechnical professionals when designing foundations and structures, as excessive settlement can lead to structural failure or instability.

The test is particularly useful for understanding the effects of applied pressure on soil layers, especially in saturated soils, which can exhibit significant consolidation behavior. By determining the rate at which consolidation occurs and the amount of settlement expected, engineers can make informed choices about foundation design and material selection to ensure stability and longevity of structures.

The other options address different aspects of soil testing; for example, shear strength relates to the soil's ability to resist sliding, permeability pertains to fluid movement through soil, and density provides information about soil compaction. However, these aspects are not the primary focus of the Terzaghi consolidation test.