If a soil is categorized as clayey, what common characteristic is it likely to exhibit?

Clayey soils are characterized by their high plasticity, which means they can undergo significant deformation without breaking. This property arises from the fine particle size and the molecular arrangement of clay minerals, which allows them to hold water and change shape in response to moisture content. When clayey soils are wet, they can become soft and pliable, enabling them to be molded easily. Conversely, when they dry, they can harden and retain a firm structure.

In addition, the high plasticity of clayey soils contributes to their ability to expand and contract with changes in moisture, which is a critical factor in the design and construction of foundations and other civil engineering projects. Understanding this characteristic is essential for predicting how clayey soils will behave under various conditions, making it a fundamental aspect of geotechnical engineering.