Specific Gravity Of Particle Given Settling Velocity Of Spherical Particle Calculator

Formula Used:

\[ G = \frac{v_s}{\left(\frac{g}{18}\right) \cdot \left(\frac{D^2}{\nu}\right)} + 1 \]

Settling Velocity (vₛ):

m/s

Acceleration due to Gravity (g):

m/s²

Diameter (D):

Kinematic Viscosity (ν):

m²/s

Specific Gravity of Sediment (G):

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1. What is Specific Gravity of Sediment?

Specific Gravity of Sediment is the ratio of the density of sediment particles to the density of water. It's a dimensionless parameter that helps characterize the relative weight of sediment particles compared to water.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ G = \frac{v_s}{\left(\frac{g}{18}\right) \cdot \left(\frac{D^2}{\nu}\right)} + 1 \]

Where:

\( G \) — Specific Gravity of Sediment
\( v_s \) — Settling Velocity (m/s)
\( g \) — Acceleration due to Gravity (m/s²)
\( D \) — Diameter of particle (m)
\( \nu \) — Kinematic Viscosity (m²/s)

Explanation: This formula calculates the specific gravity of spherical particles based on their settling velocity in a fluid, incorporating gravitational acceleration, particle diameter, and fluid viscosity.

3. Importance of Specific Gravity Calculation

Details: Calculating specific gravity of sediment particles is crucial in sediment transport studies, hydraulic engineering, and environmental science. It helps determine how particles will behave in fluid flows, their settling characteristics, and their potential for erosion or deposition.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter settling velocity in m/s, acceleration due to gravity in m/s² (default is 9.8 m/s²), diameter in meters, and kinematic viscosity in m²/s. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the typical range for specific gravity of sediment?
A: Most natural sediments have specific gravity values between 2.5 and 2.7, with quartz sand typically around 2.65.

Q2: Why is kinematic viscosity important in this calculation?
A: Kinematic viscosity represents the fluid's resistance to flow and affects how quickly particles settle through the fluid.

Q3: Can this formula be used for non-spherical particles?
A: This formula is specifically derived for spherical particles. For non-spherical particles, shape factors and drag coefficients need to be considered.

Q4: What assumptions are made in this formula?
A: The formula assumes spherical particles, laminar flow conditions, and that Stokes' law applies (low Reynolds numbers).

Q5: How does temperature affect the calculation?
A: Temperature affects kinematic viscosity significantly. Warmer fluids have lower viscosity, which can increase settling velocities for the same particle characteristics.