Soil behavior refers to how soil responds to various forces and conditions, such as pressure, moisture, and temperature. This behavior is influenced by the soil's composition, including its mineral content and structure. Understanding soil behavior is crucial for fields like geotechnical engineering and agriculture, as it affects stability, drainage, and plant growth.
Different types of soil exhibit unique behaviors. For instance, clay tends to expand when wet and shrink when dry, while sand drains quickly and provides less support. These characteristics impact construction projects, landscaping, and environmental management, making it essential to study soil behavior in various contexts.