Which type of test would likely assess the stability and load-bearing capacity of soil?

The California Bearing Ratio (CBR) test is a widely recognized method used to evaluate the stability and load-bearing capacity of soil, particularly in the context of roadway and pavement design. This test measures the strength of the subgrade soil by comparing the resistance of a standard material (crushed rock) to penetration into the soil. The results indicate how well the soil can support the loads imposed by traffic and other structures.

In practical terms, the CBR test involves taking a sample of the soil and then applying a load through a piston to measure how much the soil supports before yielding. Higher CBR values signify better load-bearing capacity, which is essential for ensuring the longevity and safety of transportation infrastructure.

Other tests, such as the slump test, air content test, and residual strength test, serve different purposes. For example, a slump test measures the workability and consistency of concrete mixtures rather than soil strength, while the residual strength test focuses on the shear strength of soil under specific conditions, not directly assessing load-bearing capacity.