Formula Used:
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The Coefficient of Permeability of soil describes how easily a liquid will move through the soil. It is a key parameter in hydrogeology and environmental engineering for understanding groundwater flow and contaminant transport.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula calculates the permeability coefficient based on well geometry and aquifer characteristics, using natural logarithm for the ratio of influence radius to well radius.
Details: Accurate permeability estimation is crucial for designing groundwater extraction systems, predicting contaminant migration, and assessing aquifer productivity for water supply projects.
Tips: Enter all values in appropriate units (meters for lengths). Ensure all values are positive and valid (R > r', B > 0, b_w > 0) for accurate results.
Q1: What is the typical range of permeability coefficients?
A: Permeability varies widely from 10⁻¹² m/s for clay to 10⁻² m/s for gravel, depending on soil type and composition.
Q2: How is radius of influence determined?
A: Radius of influence is typically measured from pumping tests by observing drawdown distances from the well center to where water table remains unaffected.
Q3: What affects aquifer loss coefficient?
A: Aquifer loss coefficient depends on aquifer properties, well construction, and pumping rate, and is constant for a given flow rate.
Q4: When is this formula most applicable?
A: This formula is particularly useful for confined aquifers with steady-state flow conditions and fully penetrating wells.
Q5: Are there limitations to this equation?
A: The formula assumes homogeneous aquifer properties, radial symmetry, and may be less accurate for complex geological conditions or partially penetrating wells.