Geotechnical engineering involves the study of soil properties and behavior to ensure the stability and durability of civil engineering structures. Consider a construction project where a building foundation needs to be designed on a site with predominantly cohesive soil. Which of the following factors would most significantly influence the selection of an appropriate foundation type for this site?

a$)$ Soil pH and chemical composition

b$)$ Soil permeability and porosity

c$)$ Soil moisture content and compaction characteristics

d$)$ Soil shear strength and compressibility