How does moisture content affect the behavior of clay soils?

The behavior of clay soils is significantly influenced by moisture content, and one of the critical aspects impacted is swell potential. When moisture is added to clay, the water molecules are absorbed into the spaces between the clay particles, causing them to expand. This swelling can lead to changes in volume, which is an essential consideration in construction and engineering projects involving clay soils.

Understanding swell potential is important because it can affect the stability and performance of structures built on or within these soils. For instance, excessive swelling can cause foundation upheaval, damage to pavements, and other structural issues, while drying can lead to shrinkage and potential cracking.

While there are aspects of plasticity that are affected by moisture levels, the correct answer specifically highlights swell potential as a primary behavior influenced by moisture in clay soils. This highlights the critical need for soil moisture management in engineering practices.