$($Pr$.8\mathrm{.}14$ and $8\mathrm{.}16)$ For the clay layer shown below,

a$)$ Determine the average stress increase in the clay layer below

the center of the foundation due to the net foundation load of

$900$ kN$.$ Use $2$:$1$ method to find average stress increase in the

clay layer.

b$)$ Estimate the consolidation settlement of the clay layer based

on the average stress increase in the clay layer.