Specific Gravity Given Dry Unit Weight And Water Content Calculator

Specific Gravity of Soil Formula:

\[ G_s = \frac{\gamma_{dry} \times (1 + \frac{w_s}{S})}{\gamma_{water}} \]

Dry Unit Weight (γ_dry):

kN/m³

Water Content (w_s):

Degree of Saturation (S):

Unit Weight of Water (γ_water):

kN/m³

Specific Gravity of Soil (G_s):

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1. What is Specific Gravity of Soil?

Specific Gravity of Soil is an important property of soil being related to density. It represents the ratio of the density of soil solids to the density of water.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ G_s = \frac{\gamma_{dry} \times (1 + \frac{w_s}{S})}{\gamma_{water}} \]

Where:

\( G_s \) — Specific Gravity of Soil
\( \gamma_{dry} \) — Dry Unit Weight of soil (kN/m³)
\( w_s \) — Water Content of Soil
\( S \) — Degree of Saturation
\( \gamma_{water} \) — Unit Weight of Water (kN/m³)

Explanation: The formula calculates the specific gravity by considering the dry unit weight adjusted for water content and saturation, normalized by the unit weight of water.

3. Importance of Specific Gravity Calculation

Details: Specific gravity is crucial for determining soil density, void ratio, and degree of saturation. It helps in classifying soils and understanding their engineering properties.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter dry unit weight in kN/m³, water content as a decimal, degree of saturation between 0 and 1, and unit weight of water (default 9.81 kN/m³). All values must be valid and positive.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the typical range for specific gravity of soil?
A: For most soils, specific gravity ranges from 2.60 to 2.80. Organic soils may have lower values.

Q2: Why is unit weight of water typically 9.81 kN/m³?
A: 9.81 kN/m³ is the standard value representing the acceleration due to gravity acting on water's density.

Q3: How does degree of saturation affect specific gravity?
A: Degree of saturation accounts for the proportion of void space filled with water, influencing the calculated specific gravity.

Q4: Can this formula be used for all soil types?
A: This formula is generally applicable for most soil types, but results may vary for organic or highly porous soils.

Q5: What precautions should be taken when measuring water content?
A: Water content should be measured accurately using standardized methods like oven-drying to ensure reliable results.