Dilatancy
“Dilatancy” is the increase in the bulk volume of a soil substance during deformation. Dilatancy is caused by the change from a close-pack structure to an open-pack structure.
“Dilatancy” is the increase in the bulk volume of a soil substance during deformation. Dilatancy is caused by the change from a close-pack structure to an open-pack structure.

Leaking Underground Storage Tank (UST) Leaking Underground Storage Tank (LUST): A leaking underground storage tank (LUST) is a known case of hazardous liquid materials released into the environment, from within an underground storage tank (UST) source. The term “LUST” commonly applies to gasoline station soil contamination cases overseen by environmental regulatory agencies. Also See: Underground…

Connate Water Definition Connate Water: In geology, connate water is groundwater that has been trapped within the pore space of a sedimentary rock since its original deposition. Connate water is also referred to as “fossil water” due to a long history of non-exposure.

Strike-Slip Fault or Transform Fault Strike-Slip Fault (Transform Fault): In the field of geology, a strike-slip fault, or a transform fault, is a fault in which movement is parallel to the strike of the fault plane. The opposite of a strike-slip fault is a dip-slip fault. Left-Lateral or Right-Lateral Strike-Slip Fault A transform fault can…

Ultramafic Definition In the study of geology, the term “ultramafic” refers to an igneous rock that comprises up to 90% mafic minerals, or more.

Lithosphere Lithosphere: The lithosphere comprises the Earth’s crust as well as part of the upper mantle. In fact, the lithosphere is approximately 100 kilometers thick and is relatively strong as compared to the underlying asthenosphere.

Hydro-Compaction Definition (Hydrocompaction) The term “Hydro-Compaction” or “Hydrocompaction” in engineering geology refers to the process whereby soils collapse upon saturation. Hydrocompaction can also be called “Hydro-Consolidation.”