What component of shear strength is independent of interparticle friction in rocks or soils?

Cohesion is the component of shear strength that is independent of interparticle friction in rocks or soils. It represents the natural force that holds soil or rock particles together, providing strength without relying on the friction that occurs when particles slide against one another. This cohesive strength can stem from factors such as chemical bonding, moisture content, and the effects of clay minerals.

In contrast, the friction angle, which describes the contribution of frictional resistance to shear strength, is directly dependent on the contact between particles and their relative movement. Effective stress refers to the stress that contributes to shear strength under saturated conditions, taking into account pore pressures, while plasticity pertains to the ability of a material to undergo deformation without cracking or breaking, which does not directly relate to the shear strength components. The important aspect to recognize is that cohesion stands apart from interparticle interactions, making it a unique factor in determining shear strength.