North Carolina General Contractors Practice Exam

The correct answer identifies unstable soil and backfill difficulties as common issues caused by groundwater. Groundwater can significantly impact soil stability due to the way it influences the moisture content of the soil. When groundwater levels fluctuate, they can lead to changes in the soil structure, potentially making it unstable. Unstable soil poses risks for construction and other land use, as it can result in subsidence or landslides.

Additionally, backfill difficulties often arise from the presence of groundwater. When filling excavated areas, the saturated soil can be more challenging to compact properly. If the backfill material isn't adequately compacted, it can lead to future settling issues, compromising structures built above it.

Overall, these issues highlight the critical importance of understanding and managing groundwater in construction and land development contexts, as they have direct implications for safety and project success.