What type of soil is characterized by low cohesion and crumbles easily under pressure?

Granular soil is characterized by its low cohesion and the tendency to crumble easily under pressure due to its loose structure. This type of soil includes materials such as sand and gravel, which do not stick together and are more prone to shifting when disturbed. The individual particles in granular soil are typically larger and provide little resistance against gravitational forces or other applied stresses, leading to its instability when saturated or under load. Understanding the properties of granular soil is crucial for proper excavation practices, as it impacts the safety measures needed to prevent cave-ins and ensure worker safety. In contrast, cohesive soils, like clay, have higher cohesion and can retain their shape under pressure, making them behave quite differently during excavation activities.