In the unconfined compression test, what is the primary outcome measured?

The unconfined compression test primarily measures the axial compressive strength of cohesive soils. In this test, a cylindrical soil specimen is subjected to axial loading without any confining pressure, allowing engineers to determine how the soil behaves under compressive forces. The maximum axial load that the soil can sustain before failure is recorded, which is an essential parameter indicating the soil's strength characteristics.

This outcome is particularly significant because it provides insight into the soil's ability to support structures and withstand loading conditions without lateral support. Cohesive soils, such as clays, exhibit specific failure mechanisms under unconfined conditions, and the axial compressive strength is a critical property for designing foundations, retaining walls, and other structures in geotechnical engineering.

The other choices focus on properties that are not the primary goal of this test. For instance, while the elastic modulus is related to the behavior of soils, it is not directly measured in the unconfined compression test; this test primarily yields strength values. Shear strength is a key characteristic, particularly for granular soils, but the unconfined compression test specifically addresses the compressive strength of cohesive soils. Lastly, determining water content is important in soil analysis, but it is assessed through separate methods and is not a primary