In the design of a Counterfort Retaining Wall, the stem slab acts as
- AA cantilever fixed at the base slab.
- BA circular slab resisting hoop tension.
- CA simply supported beam spanning vertically.
- DA continuous slab supported by the counterforts.Correct
Solution
Concept
Counterfort Retaining Wall Design
Formula
N/A
Step-by-step solution
1. Analyze the structural behavior of the stem slab in a Counterfort Retaining Wall. 2. Note that because the stem slab spans horizontally across multiple vertical counterfort supports, it acts as a continuous slab. 3. Select Option D as the correct choice.
Explanation
In a counterfort retaining wall, vertical concrete supports (counterforts) are placed at regular intervals behind the wall. Because the stem slab spans horizontally across these multiple vertical supports, it acts as a continuous slab that transfers lateral soil pressure to the counterforts.
Shortcut
To remember the behavior of a Counterfort Retaining Wall stem slab, use the rule "Counterfort = Continuous Horizontal": - Cantilever Wall: Stem acts as a vertical cantilever fixed at the base. - Counterfort Wall: Counterforts act as intermediate supports, so the stem acts as a continuous slab spanning horizontally between them.
Common mistake
A common mistake is selecting option A by confusing a counterfort retaining wall with a cantilever retaining wall and assuming the stem acts as a vertical cantilever fixed at the base. In a counterfort retaining wall, the stem spans horizontally across the counterforts, acting as a continuous slab.
Correct answer: D) A continuous slab supported by the counterforts.