Rigid and Flexible Footings

Question

Explain how does the pressure distribution alter under rigid and flexible footings?

Answer 1

For thick and rigid footings, distribution of pressure below the footings is usually supposed to be linear. If uniform and proportional loadings are exerted over footings, the bearing pressure is evenly distributed. Though, if unsymmetrical loads are encountered, then trapezoidal shape of bearing reaction might result.

For flexible footings on the weak and compressible soils, the bearing pressures under footing could not be linear. As such, a thorough examination of soil pressures is required to determine the bending moment and shear forces of structure.