Cohesion in soil primarily contributes to which of the following?

Cohesion in soil is a critical factor that contributes to soil stability. Cohesion refers to the attractive forces between soil particles, which can arise from various sources such as water, surface tension, and the chemical properties of the particles themselves. This cohesive force helps bind the soil particles together, enhancing the overall stability of the soil structure.

When soil exhibits high cohesion, it can withstand greater loads and resist erosion and shear failure. This is particularly significant in slope stability and the structural integrity of foundations. Cohesive soils, like clays, tend to have distinct properties that allow them to retain shape and form under varying conditions, which is essential for engineering applications, such as the design of earth structures, dams, and retaining walls.

While the other options pertain to different soil characteristics, they do not directly relate to the concept of cohesion as it pertains to stability. Soil drainage primarily concerns the movement of water through soil, which affects moisture levels but does not specifically relate to the binding of particles. Electrical conductivity is related to the soil's ability to conduct electricity, often influenced by moisture content and salinity, rather than the inherent properties that define cohesion. Soil moisture retention describes the ability of soil to retain water, which can be affected by both cohesion and