1. What is Specific Yield?

Specific Yield tells how much water is available for Consumptive use. It represents the volume of water that a saturated rock or soil will yield by gravity drainage.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Specific Yield formula:

Where:

• \( S_y \) — Specific Yield (dimensionless)
• \( V_d \) — Volume of Water Drained (m³)
• \( V_t \) — Total Volume of Soil or Rock Sample (m³)

Explanation: The formula calculates the ratio of drained water volume to the total volume of the soil or rock sample, representing the portion of water that can be extracted by gravity.

3. Importance of Specific Yield Calculation

Details: Specific Yield is crucial in hydrogeology for determining groundwater storage capacity, well yield estimation, and managing water resources in aquifers.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the volume of water drained and total volume of soil or rock sample in cubic meters. Both values must be positive, with total volume greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the typical range of Specific Yield values?
A: Specific Yield typically ranges from 0.01 to 0.35, depending on the soil or rock type, with coarser materials having higher values.

Q2: How does Specific Yield differ from Specific Retention?
A: Specific Yield represents drainable water, while Specific Retention represents water retained against gravity. Their sum equals porosity.

Q3: What factors affect Specific Yield values?
A: Grain size distribution, particle shape, packing arrangement, and degree of compaction significantly influence Specific Yield values.

Q4: How is Specific Yield measured in practice?
A: Typically measured through drainage tests where a saturated sample is allowed to drain, and the volume of drained water is measured.

Q5: Why is Specific Yield important in groundwater studies?
A: It helps determine the amount of water available for extraction from aquifers and is essential for sustainable groundwater management.