Environmental

New Mexico's semi-arid climate and caliche soil can affect residential foundations. Which of the following best describes caliche?

AA type of clay soil that expands when wet
BA hard calcium carbonate layer in the soil that can impede water drainage and foundation work✓ Correct
CA type of adobe construction material
DA desert plant that undermines foundations

Explanation

Caliche is a hardened layer of calcium carbonate (calcite) found in New Mexico soils. It can impede drainage, complicate foundation excavation, and affect percolation for septic systems.

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