Question $5[10$ Marks$]$

$5\mathrm{.}1$ Analyse why it is often more practical to use a group of smaller diameter piles rather than a single large$-$diameter pile for single column$-$type piers.

$5\mathrm{.}2$ You are inspecting a bridge and notice excessive stress at the joints. This stress can lead to cracking, joint failure, or even more severe structural damage over time, potentielly reducing the lifespan of the bridge, increasing maintenance costs, and

$3$

CMT$2601$

MAUOR TEST $1$

compromising safety. As an engineer, what would you report as the causes of this stress, and what remedies would you recommend?

$[6]$