Alabama Contractors License Practice Exam

A report of a geotechnical investigation must contain all of the following except?

1. Location of tests

2. Soil profile

3. Temperature during test

4. Elevation of water table

The correct answer is: Temperature during test

A geotechnical investigation report is essential for understanding soil properties and conditions at a site, which can significantly impact construction and excavation work. Such a report generally focuses on data that informs decisions about the design and engineering aspects of a project. The location of tests is crucial as it indicates where soil samples were taken, directly reflecting the site's conditions. Similarly, a soil profile is vital as it details the different layers of soil found at various depths, including their material types and properties, allowing engineers to assess stability and suitability for construction purposes. The elevation of the water table is also significant, as it affects soil behavior, drainage, and potential structural support. While temperature during the tests can be relevant in specific contexts, it is not a fundamental requirement for the geotechnical investigation report. The primary focus is on the characteristics of the soil and groundwater conditions rather than environmental conditions like temperature, which do not typically influence the investigation's findings or the report’s essential content. Thus, it is accurate to state that a report must contain all of the mentioned elements except temperature.