In what scenario would you utilize a standard penetration test?

• A. To evaluate soil density
• B. To calculate aggregate size
• C. To assess soil bearing capacity
• D. To determine water levels

Answer: (C)

A standard penetration test (SPT) is primarily used in geotechnical engineering to assess the soil's bearing capacity, making this the correct scenario for its application. The test involves driving a thick, hollow tube into the soil at the site and measuring the number of blows it takes to penetrate a certain depth. This data provides information about the soil's resistance to penetration, which can be correlated to its strength and bearing capacity.

Understanding soil bearing capacity is crucial in construction, as it determines how much weight the soil can safely support from structures built on it. Knowing this information helps engineers design foundations that will adequately support the loads imposed by buildings and other structures.

Utilizing a standard penetration test is not specifically aimed at evaluating soil density, calculating aggregate size, or determining water levels. While soil density and water levels may be addressed through other testing methods, such as the cone penetration test or using piezometers for groundwater monitoring, these are not the primary purposes of the SPT. Thus, assessing soil bearing capacity stands out as the main objective of employing the standard penetration test.