Civil Engineering Professional Engineer Practice Exam 2025 - Free PE Practice Questions and Study Guide

The use of geotextiles or the addition of cement or lime to soil is a well-recognized method of soil stabilization. This technique enhances the physical properties of the soil and is often employed to improve load-bearing capacity, reduce plasticity, and decrease compressibility, thereby making the soil more suitable for construction and infrastructure projects.

Cement and lime treatments work by chemically reacting with the clay particles in the soil, leading to a more rigid and stable mass. This stabilization is particularly effective for cohesive soils, which are often more susceptible to moisture variations and can significantly benefit from the improved strength and durability that these additives provide.

Geotextiles, on the other hand, are synthetic fabrics that are used to reinforce soil, prevent erosion, and ensure proper drainage. Their implementation improves the overall stability of slopes and foundations by providing additional tensile strength and helping to distribute loads more evenly.

The other options represent methods that are not standard practices for soil stabilization. While the use of organic materials may enhance soil structure in certain contexts, it does not provide the same level of stabilization required for engineering applications. Excavation of weak soil layers may temporarily improve a situation but does not stabilize the remaining soil. Similarly, adding fertilizer is primarily meant for agricultural purposes and