Saturated Unit Weight Given Bulk Unit Weight And Degree Of Saturation Calculator

Saturated Unit Weight Formula:

\[ \gamma_{saturated} = \frac{(\gamma_{bulk} - \gamma_{dry})}{S} + \gamma_{dry} \]

Saturated Unit Weight (γ_saturated):

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1. What is Saturated Unit Weight?

Saturated Unit Weight of Soil is defined as the weight per unit volume of soil when it is fully saturated with water. It represents the maximum density condition of soil when all voids are filled with water.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Saturated Unit Weight formula:

\[ \gamma_{saturated} = \frac{(\gamma_{bulk} - \gamma_{dry})}{S} + \gamma_{dry} \]

Where:

\( \gamma_{saturated} \) — Saturated Unit Weight (N/m³)
\( \gamma_{bulk} \) — Bulk Unit Weight (N/m³)
\( \gamma_{dry} \) — Dry Unit Weight (N/m³)
\( S \) — Degree of Saturation (ratio)

Explanation: The formula calculates the saturated unit weight by accounting for the water content and degree of saturation in the soil sample.

3. Importance of Saturated Unit Weight Calculation

Details: Saturated unit weight is crucial in geotechnical engineering for slope stability analysis, foundation design, and earth pressure calculations. It helps determine the soil's behavior under saturated conditions and its load-bearing capacity.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter bulk unit weight and dry unit weight in N/m³, and degree of saturation as a ratio between 0 and 1. All values must be positive numbers with degree of saturation not exceeding 1.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between bulk unit weight and saturated unit weight?
A: Bulk unit weight is the weight of soil including both solids and water per unit volume, while saturated unit weight specifically refers to the weight when all voids are completely filled with water.

Q2: Why is degree of saturation important in this calculation?
A: Degree of saturation indicates how much of the void space is filled with water, which directly affects the unit weight of the soil mass.

Q3: What are typical values for saturated unit weight?
A: Saturated unit weight typically ranges from 18-22 kN/m³ for most soils, though it can vary significantly depending on soil type and composition.

Q4: When is saturated unit weight used in engineering practice?
A: It's used in slope stability analysis, retaining wall design, settlement calculations, and any geotechnical analysis where the soil is expected to be in a saturated condition.

Q5: How does saturated unit weight affect foundation design?
A: Higher saturated unit weight increases the overburden pressure and affects bearing capacity calculations, making it a critical parameter in foundation design.