1. What is Soil Density?

Definition: Soil density (ρ) is the mass of soil per unit volume, typically measured in kilograms per cubic meter (kg/m³).

Purpose: Understanding soil density is crucial for construction, agriculture, and environmental engineering projects.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( \rho \) — Density of soil (kg/m³)
• \( m \) — Mass of soil sample (kg)
• \( V \) — Volume of soil sample (m³)

Explanation: The mass of soil is divided by its volume to determine its density.

3. Typical Soil Density Values

Details: Soil density typically ranges between 1500–2000 kg/m³, varying by soil type:

• Loose sand: ~1440 kg/m³
• Packed sand: ~1680 kg/m³
• Clay soil: ~1500-1800 kg/m³
• Loam: ~1300-1600 kg/m³

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the mass of soil in kilograms and volume in cubic meters. Both values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is soil density important?
A: It affects bearing capacity, compaction, water retention, and plant growth in agricultural applications.

Q2: How do I measure soil volume accurately?
A: Use a container with known volume, or for field measurements, use water displacement methods.

Q3: What's the difference between bulk density and particle density?
A: Bulk density includes pore spaces, while particle density measures only the solid particles.

Q4: How does moisture affect soil density?
A: Water increases mass but may slightly increase volume, with net effect depending on soil type.

Q5: What's a good density for construction projects?
A: Typically 1800-2000 kg/m³ after compaction, but requirements vary by project specifications.