Coefficient of Permeability Formula:
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The coefficient of permeability (K) of soil describes how easily a liquid will move through the soil. It is a crucial parameter in environmental engineering for groundwater flow analysis and well interference studies.
The calculator uses the permeability formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula accounts for interference effects between wells and provides the permeability coefficient based on pumping test data.
Details: Accurate permeability calculation is essential for designing groundwater extraction systems, predicting contaminant transport, and managing aquifer resources effectively.
Tips: Enter all values in appropriate units (meters for lengths, m³/s for discharge). Ensure all values are positive and physically meaningful (aquifer thickness > water depth).
Q1: What is well interference?
A: Well interference occurs when multiple wells are close enough that their cones of depression overlap, affecting each other's performance and water extraction rates.
Q2: What are typical permeability values for different soils?
A: Clay: 10⁻⁸-10⁻¹⁰ m/s, Silt: 10⁻⁵-10⁻⁸ m/s, Sand: 10⁻³-10⁻⁵ m/s, Gravel: 10⁻¹-10⁻³ m/s.
Q3: When is this formula most applicable?
A: This formula is particularly useful for confined aquifers with multiple pumping wells where interference effects need to be considered.
Q4: What are the limitations of this approach?
A: The formula assumes homogeneous, isotropic aquifer conditions and may not accurately represent complex geological formations or anisotropic flow conditions.
Q5: How does well spacing affect permeability calculations?
A: Closer well spacing increases interference effects, which must be properly accounted for in the permeability calculation to avoid underestimating the true aquifer permeability.