1. What is Unit Weight of Soil?

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

Purpose: This measurement is crucial in geotechnical engineering for analyzing soil properties and designing foundations.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

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 its density or unit weight.

3. Importance of Unit Weight Calculation

Details: Knowing the unit weight helps determine soil bearing capacity, settlement potential, and is essential for foundation design.

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 common soils?
A: Clay soils range 1600-2000 kg/m³, sandy soils 1800-2100 kg/m³, and gravel soils 1900-2200 kg/m³.

Q2: How is this different from specific gravity?
A: Unit weight is mass per volume, while specific gravity compares density to water's density.

Q3: Should I use wet or dry mass?
A: For total unit weight use wet mass, for dry unit weight use oven-dried mass (at 110°C).

Q4: How do I measure soil volume accurately?
A: Use water displacement method for irregular samples or calibrated containers for bulk samples.

Q5: What affects soil unit weight?
A: Moisture content, compaction, particle size distribution, and organic content all influence unit weight.