Which one of the following is a time-dependent reversible process in which materials under constant composition and volume soften when remolded?
- ASensitivity
- BHydraulic conductivity
- CThixotropyCorrect
- DElasticity
Solution
Concept
Thixotropy of clays
Step-by-step solution
1. A thixotropic material loses strength when remoulded at constant water content and regains it with time.
Explanation
Thixotropy is the time-dependent, reversible regain of strength of a remoulded clay at constant composition and volume. Sensitivity measures the loss of strength by remoulding but is not the process of regain.
Why the other options are wrong
Sensitivity is a ratio, hydraulic conductivity is permeability, and elasticity is a stress–strain property.
Shortcut
Thixotropy = strength regain with time.
Common mistake
Choosing sensitivity.
Correct answer: C) Thixotropy