(1)Tunnel  A tunnel is an underground or underwater passageway or excavation that is primarily used for transportation, communication, or the conveyance of utilities.

(i) It is a hollow passage typically constructed through solid rock, soil, or other materials.

(2) Advantages of Tunnels Compared to Open Cuts:

1.Minimized Surface Disruption: Tunnels allow for transportation or utility infrastructure to be hidden underground, minimizing visual disruption and preserving the natural landscape.
2.Obstacle Avoidance: Tunnels can bypass geographical obstacles such as mountains, rivers, or dense urban areas, providing a direct and efficient transportation route.

Disadvantages of Tunnels Compared to Open Cuts:

1.Higher Construction Costs: Tunnel construction is typically more expensive than open cuts due to the complex engineering and excavation methods required.
2.Limited Accessibility: Tunnels can be challenging to access for maintenance, repairs, or emergencies, requiring specialized equipment and procedures.

(3) The criteria for selecting the size and shape of tunnels include:
1.Function and Purpose: Aligning the tunnel design with its intended use.
2.Geotechnical Conditions: Considering the geological and geotechnical characteristics of the area to ensure stability.
3.Traffic Volume and Vehicle Type: Accommodating projected traffic volume and vehicle types.
4.Safety and Ventilation: Allowing for safety measures and ventilation systems.
5.Construction Method: Choosing a construction method compatible with the desired size and shape.
6.Environmental Impact: Mitigating environmental impacts and minimizing the tunnel's footprint.
7.Cost and Economic Viability: Optimizing the design to reduce construction and maintenance costs.
8.Future Expansion and Flexibility: Allowing for potential future changes or expansions.

(4) The construction of shafts in tunnel engineering involves the following key aspects:
1.Location and Design: Determine the shaft's location and design based on access requirements and geological conditions.
2.Excavation: Remove overburden material or rock to reach the desired depth using various excavation methods.
3.Shaft Lining: Install a lining, typically made of concrete, to provide stability and prevent water ingress.
4.Temporary Support: Use temporary support systems to stabilize the shaft walls during construction.
5.Ventilation and Utilities: Ensure the shaft facilitates ventilation and accommodates utility systems.
6.Access and Equipment Installation: Provide access for workers, machinery, and equipment during construction and maintenance.
7.Safety Considerations: Implement safety measures and protocols to protect workers during shaft construction.
8.Rehabilitation and Maintenance: Conduct regular inspections and maintenance to address any issues that arise.

(5) The factors affecting the choice of tunnelling methods include:

1.Geological Conditions: The type of soil, rock, and groundwater present in the tunneling path.
2.Tunnel Length and Alignment: The length and alignment of the tunnel.
3.Tunnel Diameter: The required diameter of the tunnel.
4.Project Schedule: The timeline and urgency of the project.
5.Environmental Considerations: Impact on noise, vibration, and ground settlement.
6.Cost Considerations: The budget and financial constraints.
7.Existing Infrastructure and Utilities: The presence of other structures in the project area.
8.Safety and Risk Assessment: Ensuring worker and public safety.

(6) Explanation of the general characteristics of soft ground in tunnel engineering:

1.Low strength and easily deformable: Soft ground is weak and prone to deformation under load.
2.High water content: Soft ground contains a significant amount of water, reducing its shear strength and increasing compressibility.
3.Fine-grained soils: Soft ground is predominantly composed of fine-grained soils, such as silts and clays, which are more susceptible to compressibility.
4.Consolidation and settlement: Soft ground undergoes consolidation, resulting in gradual settlement over time due to dissipation of excess pore water pressure.
5.Excavation challenges: Soft ground poses difficulties during tunnel excavation, requiring proper support to prevent collapse and maintain stability.
6.Groundwater control: Soft ground necessitates measures to manage groundwater levels during construction to ensure stability.
7.Potential for ground heave: Soft ground can experience upward movement or swelling, known as ground heave, due to confined water or expansive soil conditions.
8.Careful analysis and engineering: Soft ground demands meticulous analysis and engineering solutions to ensure stability, safety, and long-term performance of tunnels.