What is differential subsidence?

Differential subsidence refers to the phenomenon where different parts of a structure settle at different rates due to variations in soil conditions beneath it. This uneven settling can cause structural issues, such as cracks in walls, misaligned windows and doors, or even significant structural failure in severe cases. The importance of understanding differential subsidence in the context of site planning and design is crucial, as it emphasizes the need for thorough soil analysis and appropriate foundation design to accommodate varying soil behavior.

For instance, certain areas of the site may have different soil types or moisture levels that contribute to differential settling. By accurately assessing these conditions during the design phase, architects and engineers can create structures that are more resilient to such natural movements, ensuring longevity and safety. The correct answer captures the essence of this process as opposed to the other options, which either describe uniform or unrelated soil phenomena that do not pertain to the key principle of differential subsidence.