What is the term used to describe a deep foundation that consists of a vertical column of concrete or steel, driven into the ground?

Explanation:

Pile Foundation:

• Pile foundations are a type of deep foundation.
• These are long, cylindrical structures made of concrete, steel, or wood that are drilled or driven into the ground to a significant depth, making them ideal for structures where the upper layers of soil are weak or there's a need to transfer loads to deeper, more stable soil layers.
• The vertical columns - or piles - take on and distribute the load of the structure to the surrounding soil or bedrock. 

Additional InformationRaft Foundation:

• This is also called a Mat foundation.
• It's a type of shallow foundation that spreads the load from the structure over a large area, usually the entire footprint of the structure.

Spread footing:

• This is a type of shallow foundation.
• It is a widened portion of a load-bearing wall or column that serves to spread the load over a larger area of soil to prevent the structure from sinking.

Pier Foundation:

• This is similar to a pile foundation but used primarily in situations where the load is concentrated in certain points rather than spread out over a larger area.
• Piers are shorter and more robust than piles, usually used in hilly or sloping terrain.