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Total Volume in Soil Mechanics is defined as the total capacity of the soil sample, representing the space occupied by both solid particles and voids. It is a fundamental parameter in geotechnical engineering calculations.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula calculates the total volume by dividing the weight of solid particles by the dry density of the soil.
Details: Accurate volume calculation is essential for determining soil properties, designing foundations, calculating earthwork quantities, and assessing soil compaction in construction projects.
Tips: Enter weight of solids in kilograms and dry density in kg/m³. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero for accurate calculation.
Q1: What is the difference between total volume and solid volume?
A: Total volume includes both solid particles and void spaces, while solid volume refers only to the space occupied by the solid particles themselves.
Q2: How is dry density different from bulk density?
A: Dry density considers only the mass of solids per unit volume, while bulk density includes the mass of both solids and water present in the soil.
Q3: When should this calculation be used?
A: This calculation is particularly useful in soil compaction testing, earthwork calculations, and when determining the volume of soil required or removed in construction projects.
Q4: What are typical dry density values for different soil types?
A: Dry density varies by soil type: sands (1500-1800 kg/m³), silts (1300-1600 kg/m³), clays (1100-1500 kg/m³), depending on compaction and moisture content.
Q5: How does moisture content affect this calculation?
A: This calculation uses dry density, which already accounts for the absence of water. For wet soils, the dry density must be determined by drying the soil sample first.