ABSTRACT
Estimating the increase in stress at various points and the associated displacement caused in a soil mass due to external loading using the theory of elasticity is an important component in the safe design of the foundations of structures. The ideal assumption of the theory of elasticity, namely that the medium is homogeneous, elastic, and isotropic, is not quite true for most natural soil profiles. It does, however, provide a close estimation of geotechnical engineers and, using proper safety factors, safe designs can be developed.
