What happens when the shearing resistance of soil decreases rapidly due to stress?

When the shearing resistance of soil decreases rapidly due to stress, liquefaction occurs. This phenomenon typically happens during seismic events when the pore water pressure within saturated soils increases significantly, leading to a reduction in effective stress. As the effective stress diminishes, the soil behaves more like a liquid than a solid, causing a loss of strength and stability. This can result in buildings and other structures sinking or tilting, showcasing the dangers of liquefaction during earthquakes.

Understanding liquefaction is critical for geotechnical and civil engineering practices, particularly in areas prone to seismic activity. The phenomenon highlights the importance of soil composition, saturation levels, and the need for proper engineering solutions in construction projects located on or near potential liquefaction-prone soils.