Total Volume of Soil given Porosity of Soil Sample Calculator

Soil Volume Formula:

\[ V_t = \frac{V_{void}}{\eta_v} \times 100 \]

Total Volume of Soil (m³):

1. What is Total Volume of Soil given Porosity?

Definition: This calculator determines the total volume of a soil sample based on the volume of voids and the porosity percentage.

Purpose: It helps geotechnical engineers and soil scientists understand the relationship between void space and total volume in soil samples.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ V_t = \frac{V_{void}}{\eta_v} \times 100 \]

Where:

\( V_t \) — Total volume of soil sample (m³)
\( V_{void} \) — Volume of voids in the soil (m³)
\( \eta_v \) — Porosity of the soil sample (%)

Explanation: The formula calculates the total volume by scaling up the void volume proportionally based on the porosity percentage.

3. Importance of Soil Volume Calculation

Details: Understanding total soil volume is crucial for analyzing soil structure, water retention capacity, and compaction characteristics.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the volume of voids in cubic meters and porosity percentage (must be between 0-100%). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is porosity in soil mechanics?
A: Porosity is the ratio of void volume to total volume, expressed as a percentage, indicating how much of the soil volume is empty space.

Q2: What's a typical porosity range for soils?
A: Common porosity ranges are 30-60% for sandy soils, 40-70% for clay soils, and 20-35% for compacted soils.

Q3: How is void volume measured?
A: Void volume can be measured using laboratory tests like the water displacement method or mercury intrusion porosimetry.

Q4: Can porosity exceed 100%?
A: No, porosity is always between 0-100% as it represents a percentage of the total volume.

Q5: Why is this calculation important in construction?
A: It helps determine soil compaction requirements, drainage capacity, and load-bearing characteristics for foundations.