Downward Force On Wedge Calculator

Formula Used:

\[ R_v = q \times B + \frac{\gamma \times B^2 \times \tan(\phi \times \frac{\pi}{180})}{4} \]

Load Intensity (q):

Width of Footing (B):

Unit Weight of Soil (γ):

N/m³

Angle of Shearing Resistance (φ):

Total Downward Force in Soil (R_v):

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1. What is the Downward Force on Wedge?

The Downward Force on Wedge refers to the total vertical force acting on a soil wedge beneath a footing. It is a critical parameter in geotechnical engineering for analyzing soil stability and foundation design.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ R_v = q \times B + \frac{\gamma \times B^2 \times \tan(\phi \times \frac{\pi}{180})}{4} \]

Where:

\( R_v \) — Total Downward Force in Soil (N)
\( q \) — Load Intensity (Pa)
\( B \) — Width of Footing (m)
\( \gamma \) — Unit Weight of Soil (N/m³)
\( \phi \) — Angle of Shearing Resistance (°)

Explanation: The equation calculates the net vertical force considering both the applied load and the soil's self-weight contribution, accounting for the soil's frictional properties through the angle of shearing resistance.

3. Importance of Downward Force Calculation

Details: Accurate calculation of downward force is essential for foundation design, slope stability analysis, and ensuring structural safety against soil failure. It helps engineers determine appropriate footing dimensions and reinforcement requirements.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter load intensity in Pascals, width of footing in meters, unit weight of soil in N/m³, and angle of shearing resistance in degrees. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the significance of the angle of shearing resistance?
A: The angle of shearing resistance represents the soil's internal friction and is a key parameter in determining soil strength and stability.

Q2: How does footing width affect the downward force?
A: The downward force increases with the square of the footing width due to the increased soil volume contributing to the force.

Q3: What units should be used for input values?
A: Use Pascals for load intensity, meters for width, N/m³ for unit weight, and degrees for the angle of shearing resistance.

Q4: Can this calculator be used for different soil types?
A: Yes, the formula applies to various soil types, but the accuracy depends on proper determination of soil parameters.

Q5: What is the practical application of this calculation?
A: This calculation is used in foundation design, retaining wall analysis, and slope stability assessments in geotechnical engineering.