Unit Weight of Soil Calculator

Unit Weight Formula:

\[ \gamma = \frac{m}{V} \]

Unit Weight (γ): kg/m³

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1. What is Unit Weight of Soil?

Definition: Unit weight (γ) represents the weight of soil per unit volume, calculated by dividing the mass of soil by its volume.

Purpose: This measurement is crucial in geotechnical engineering for foundation design, slope stability analysis, and earthwork calculations.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ \gamma = \frac{m}{V} \]

Where:

\( \gamma \) — Unit weight (kg/m³)
\( m \) — Mass of soil (kg)
\( V \) — Volume of soil (m³)

Explanation: The mass of the soil sample is divided by its volume to determine how much the soil weighs per cubic meter.

3. Importance of Unit Weight Calculation

Details: Knowing the unit weight helps engineers determine bearing capacity, settlement potential, and lateral earth pressures on retaining structures.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the mass of soil in kilograms and volume in cubic meters. Both values must be greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical unit weight for soil?
A: Most soils range between 1,500-2,000 kg/m³, with clay soils typically heavier than sandy soils.

Q2: How do I measure soil mass and volume?
A: Weigh a soil sample, then measure its volume by water displacement or in a calibrated container.

Q3: What's the difference between unit weight and density?
A: Unit weight includes gravitational acceleration (weight per volume), while density is mass per volume.

Q4: How does moisture affect unit weight?
A: Wet soil typically has higher unit weight due to water filling voids between particles.

Q5: When would I need to know the unit weight?
A: Essential for calculating loads on foundations, designing earth-retaining structures, and estimating earthwork quantities.