Volume of Voids given Void Ratio of Soil Sample Calculator

Volume of Voids Formula:

\[ V_{void} = e \times V_s \]

Volume of Voids (V_void):

1. What is Volume of Voids given Void Ratio?

Definition: This calculator determines the volume of voids in a soil sample based on its void ratio and the volume of solids.

Purpose: It helps geotechnical engineers and soil scientists analyze soil structure and porosity characteristics.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ V_{void} = e \times V_s \]

Where:

\( V_{void} \) — Volume of voids (m³)
\( e \) — Void ratio (dimensionless, entered as percentage)
\( V_s \) — Volume of solids (m³)

Explanation: The void ratio (as percentage) is converted to decimal form and multiplied by the volume of solids to determine the void space.

3. Importance of Void Volume Calculation

Details: Understanding void volume is crucial for assessing soil permeability, compaction characteristics, and water retention capacity.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the void ratio as a percentage (e.g., 45% not 0.45), the volume of solids in cubic meters, and an optional tolerance percentage (default ±5%).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is void ratio in soil mechanics?
A: Void ratio is the ratio of the volume of voids to the volume of solids in a soil sample.

Q2: Why is void ratio expressed as percentage here?
A: For user convenience, though technically it's a dimensionless ratio. We convert it internally.

Q3: What's a typical void ratio range?
A: Common soils range from 30% to 100%, with clays at the lower end and loose sands at the higher end.

Q4: How do I measure volume of solids?
A: Typically determined by drying and weighing a known volume of soil, then dividing by particle density.

Q5: What does the tolerance represent?
A: The acceptable variation range (±5% by default) to account for measurement uncertainties.