1. What is the Coefficient of Permeability?

The Coefficient of Permeability of Soil Particle describes how easily a liquid will move through the soil. It is a crucial parameter in geotechnical engineering and hydrogeology for analyzing groundwater flow and soil behavior.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( K_{soil} \) — Coefficient of Permeability of Soil Particle (m/s)
• \( R_w \) — Radius of Influence measured from the center of the well (m)
• \( s_t \) — Total Drawdown in Well (m)

Explanation: This formula calculates the soil permeability coefficient based on the radius of influence and total drawdown observed during well testing.

3. Importance of Permeability Calculation

Details: Accurate permeability calculation is essential for designing drainage systems, predicting groundwater flow, assessing contamination risks, and designing foundations and earth structures.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the radius of influence in meters and total drawdown in meters. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the typical range of permeability coefficients for different soil types?
A: Permeability coefficients vary widely: gravel (10⁻¹-10⁻³ m/s), sand (10⁻³-10⁻⁶ m/s), silt (10⁻⁶-10⁻⁹ m/s), clay (10⁻⁹-10⁻¹² m/s).

Q2: How is radius of influence determined in field tests?
A: Radius of influence is typically determined by observing the distance from the well where the water table is unaffected by pumping during aquifer tests.

Q3: What factors affect soil permeability?
A: Soil permeability is influenced by grain size distribution, void ratio, degree of saturation, soil structure, and fluid properties.

Q4: When is this formula most applicable?
A: This formula is particularly useful for preliminary estimates in homogeneous, isotropic aquifers under steady-state conditions.

Q5: Are there limitations to this calculation method?
A: Yes, this method assumes ideal conditions and may not account for aquifer heterogeneity, anisotropy, or transient flow conditions.