The course covers essential concepts in soil mechanics.In this course we will study: origin of soil and grain size, weight-volume relationships, plasticity and structure of soil, soil classification, soil compaction,consolidation, permeability, seepage, stresses in a soil mass, compressibility of soil, and shear strength of soil, earth pressure theory and other topics.The course emphasizes the learning of soil mechanics concepts. Some examples of application of these concepts to geotechnical engineering practice are also provided to reinforce these concepts. 

The goals of this course-

•Develop a fundamental understanding of the nature and peculiarities of soils, rocks and other earth materials relative to their performance in soil-structure systems. 

•Survey the principles of analysis of soil-structure system and to review some design techniques and practices. 

•Develop a working knowledge of soils and geotechnical engineering to be able to recognize critical situations in practice and to develop a capability for detailed research for solutions to particular problems.  

Upon completion of this course, the student should: -Have knowledge of soil origin and mineralogy. 

 Have knowledge of soil properties and classifications. 

 Have understanding of water seepage and flow nets. 

 Have differentiation between effective and total stresses. 

 Have development of research skills and presentation skills.