Passive Earth Pressure Theory for Short-Term Condition (Single Pile or Pier). A simple approach
to determining the lateral resistance of cohesive soil for a quick lateral loading condition (i.e., shortterm condition) is to use a total stress analysis, assume large deformations, and determine the passive
resistance of the soil acting on the side of the pile. The passive resistance of the cohesive soil can be
calculated by using the middle diagram in Fig. 6.20 (i.e., f=0, s
u
=c). As indicated in this diagram,
for cohesive soil, the passive resistance exerted on a rigid foundation element that is laterally pushed
into the soil is equal to