How is cohesive soil typically described?

Cohesive soil is typically characterized by its fine particle size and ability to bond together due to cohesive forces, which is primarily attributed to the presence of clay minerals. This soil type holds moisture well, which contributes to its plasticity and makes it behave like a paste when wet.

The description that identifies cohesive soil as "clay-like with low internal friction" highlights these key properties. The internal friction angle in cohesive soils is relatively low compared to granular soils, as cohesive soils derive their strength from both the attraction between particles and the water content. When dry, cohesive soils have the potential to stick together, creating a functional strength that allows them to maintain a certain shape and support loads effectively without significant movement.

In contrast, cohesive soils do not fit the descriptions associated with the other options, which focus on characteristics typical of non-cohesive soils, like sand or gravel, and do not account for the unique properties exhibited by clay and similar fine-grained materials.