Water Content given Void Ratio in Specific Gravity Calculator

Water Content Formula:

\[ \omega = \frac{e \times S}{G_s} \]

Water Content (ω):

1. What is Water Content given Void Ratio in Specific Gravity?

Definition: This calculator determines the water content of soil based on void ratio, degree of saturation, and specific gravity of soil solids.

Purpose: It helps geotechnical engineers and soil scientists understand the water content in soil samples, which is crucial for stability analysis.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ \omega = \frac{e \times S}{G_s} \]

Where:

\( \omega \) — Water content (ratio, multiply by 100 for percentage)
\( e \) — Void ratio (volume of voids/volume of solids)
\( S \) — Degree of saturation (0 to 1)
\( G_s \) — Specific gravity of soil solids

Explanation: The formula relates the void ratio and degree of saturation to the water content, normalized by the specific gravity of the soil solids.

3. Importance of Water Content Calculation

Details: Water content affects soil strength, compressibility, and permeability. Accurate measurement is essential for foundation design and slope stability analysis.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter void ratio (typically 0.3-2.0), degree of saturation (0-1), and specific gravity (typically 2.6-2.8 for most soils). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the typical range for water content?
A: Water content typically ranges from 5% to 50%, but can be higher for organic soils.

Q2: How is void ratio determined?
A: Void ratio is calculated from laboratory tests measuring the volume of voids and solids in a soil sample.

Q3: What does degree of saturation mean?
A: Degree of saturation (0-1 or 0%-100%) indicates what percentage of the void space is filled with water.

Q4: Why is specific gravity important?
A: Specific gravity normalizes the calculation for different soil mineral types.

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: Accuracy depends on precise measurement of input parameters. Typical accuracy is ±5%.