Specific Gravity Formula:
Definition: This calculator determines the specific gravity of soil based on void ratio, degree of saturation, and water content.
Purpose: It helps geotechnical engineers and soil scientists analyze soil properties for construction and agricultural applications.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula relates the void ratio and saturation to the specific gravity through the water content.
Details: Specific gravity is crucial for determining soil density, porosity, and for calculating other important soil properties in geotechnical engineering.
Tips: Enter the void ratio (dimensionless), degree of saturation (%), and water content (%). All values must be > 0 except saturation which can be 0.
Q1: What is a typical void ratio range?
A: For most soils, void ratio ranges from 0.3 (dense soils) to 1.0 (loose soils).
Q2: How is degree of saturation measured?
A: It's typically determined through laboratory tests measuring water content and void ratio.
Q3: What's a normal specific gravity range for soils?
A: Most mineral soils have specific gravity between 2.60 and 2.80.
Q4: Why is water content expressed as percentage?
A: It's the ratio of water weight to solids weight, expressed as percentage for convenience.
Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: Accuracy depends on precise measurement of input parameters, typically ±5%.