Total Volume of Soil given Dry Unit Weight Calculator

Total Volume Formula:

\[ V = \frac{W_{sk}}{\gamma_{dry}} \]

Total Volume (m³):

1. What is Total Volume of Soil given Dry Unit Weight?

Definition: This calculator determines the total volume of soil based on the weight of solids and the dry unit weight of the soil.

Purpose: It helps geotechnical engineers and soil scientists calculate the volume of soil required or present in a given mass.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ V = \frac{W_{sk}}{\gamma_{dry}} \]

Where:

\( V \) — Total volume of soil (m³)
\( W_{sk} \) — Weight of solids in soil (kN)
\( \gamma_{dry} \) — Dry unit weight of soil (kN/m³)

Explanation: The weight of solids is divided by the dry unit weight to determine the total volume of soil.

3. Importance of Soil Volume Calculation

Details: Accurate volume calculations are essential for earthwork projects, foundation design, and soil compaction analysis.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the weight of solids in kN, dry unit weight in kN/m³, and tolerance percentage (default ±5%). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is dry unit weight of soil?
A: Dry unit weight is the weight of soil solids per unit total volume of soil mass when completely dry.

Q2: How is weight of solids measured?
A: Weight of solids is typically measured by drying a soil sample and weighing it, then converting to kN.

Q3: What does the tolerance percentage mean?
A: The tolerance (±5% by default) accounts for measurement uncertainties and natural soil variability.

Q4: What are typical dry unit weight values?
A: Common ranges are 14-21 kN/m³ for sandy soils, 11-17 kN/m³ for clayey soils.

Q5: Can this be used for wet soils?
A: No, this calculates volume based on dry unit weight. For wet soils, use bulk unit weight instead.