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.”

Perched Groundwater Perched Groundwater – In geology, “perched groundwater” refers to unconfined groundwater which separates from an underlying body of groundwater by an unsaturated zone or vadose zone.

Polychlorinated Biphenyl (PCBs) Polychlorinated Biphenyl (PCBs): Polychlorinated Biphenyl (PCBs) are highly toxic human-engineered chlorinated hydrocarbons that have been used around the world as enhancers to hydraulic oil and electrical insulators. PCBs were applied for maintaining low flammability rates, high boiling points, and stronger chemical stability. As of 1979, PCBs have been banned from use in…

Topple Definition Topple – Slope movement due to forces that cause an overturning moment about a pivot point below the center of gravity of the unit.

Biogenic Gas Biogenic Gas: In geology, biogenic gas refers to natural gas that is the byproduct of the microbial decomposition of biological and organic matter. For instance, methane soil gas on Earth is typically a biogenic gas resulting from the decomposition of organic soil zones, landfills, marshes, and swamplands. Alternatively, natural gas can be petrogenic…

Sedimentary Rock Definition In geology, the term “Sedimentary Rock” refers to the classification of rock that is the result of the gradual consolidation and deposition of loose particles of other rock classifications (igneous or metamorphic). Alternatively, sedimentary rocks can also form by the accumulation and precipitation of other natural chemical solutions in a depositional environment….