Question

Which of the following soils have high permeability?

• A. clay
• B. silt
• C. loose sand
• D. dense sand

Hint:

Permeability is highest in coarse, loosely packed soils like loose sand.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

To determine which soil type has high permeability, we analyze the given options based on their particle size and structure, which directly influence permeability.

1. Understanding Permeability:
Permeability refers to a soil's ability to allow water to flow through it. Larger particle sizes and looser packing generally result in higher permeability.

2. Evaluating the Options:
- Clay: Very fine particles, tightly packed → Low permeability (water flows slowly).
- Silt: Fine particles, moderately packed → Moderate permeability (faster than clay but slower than sand).
- Loose sand: Coarse particles, loosely packed → High permeability (water flows quickly).
- Dense sand: Coarse particles but tightly packed → Moderate permeability (slower than loose sand).

3. Conclusion:
Loose sand has the highest permeability among the options due to its large particle size and loose structure.

Final Answer:
The correct choice is \( \boxed{\text{loose sand}} \).