1. What is Length of Arc of Slice given Effective Stress?

Definition: This calculator determines the length of arc for a soil slice in slope stability analysis, considering effective normal stress and pore pressure.

Purpose: It's essential for geotechnical engineers analyzing slope stability using methods like the Method of Slices.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( l \) — Length of arc (meters)
• \( P \) — Total normal force (Newtons)
• \( \sigma' \) — Effective normal stress (Pascals)
• \( \Sigma U \) — Total pore pressure (Newtons)

Explanation: The length is calculated by dividing the total normal force by the sum of effective stress and pore pressure.

3. Importance of Length of Arc Calculation

Details: Accurate arc length calculation is crucial for determining shear resistance and factor of safety in slope stability analysis.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the total normal force, effective normal stress, total pore pressure, and uncertainty percentage (default ±5%). All values must be ≥ 0 except force which must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is effective normal stress?
A: Effective stress is the stress carried by the soil skeleton, calculated as total stress minus pore water pressure.

Q2: Why include pore pressure?
A: Pore pressure reduces the effective stress in the soil, affecting its shear strength and stability.

Q3: What does the uncertainty percentage mean?
A: It provides a range accounting for measurement errors and natural variability in soil properties.

Q4: When would pore pressure be zero?
A: In completely dry conditions or when pore pressure measurements aren't available (though this is less accurate).

Q5: How is total normal force determined?
A: Typically calculated from the weight of the soil slice and any external loads acting on it.

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