1. What is Degree of Saturation?

The degree of saturation (S) is the ratio of the volume of water to the volume of voids in a soil mass, expressed as a percentage. It indicates how much of the void space is filled with water.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the degree of saturation formula:

Where:

• \( S \) — Degree of saturation (%)
• \( V_{water} \) — Volume of water in the soil (cm³)
• \( V_{voids} \) — Volume of voids in the soil (cm³)

Explanation: The formula calculates what percentage of the void space in the soil is occupied by water.

3. Importance of Degree of Saturation

Details: Degree of saturation is crucial in geotechnical engineering for understanding soil behavior. It affects soil strength, compressibility, and permeability. S=0% means dry soil, S=100% means fully saturated soil.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter both volumes in cm³. The void volume must be greater than zero. The water volume cannot exceed the void volume (S cannot be >100%).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the range of degree of saturation?
A: It ranges from 0% (completely dry soil) to 100% (fully saturated soil). Values above 100% are not possible.

Q2: How is this different from water content?
A: Water content is the ratio of water mass to solids mass, while degree of saturation is the ratio of water volume to void volume.

Q3: What instruments measure these volumes?
A: Water volume can be measured through drying tests. Void volume can be calculated from porosity or specific gravity tests.

Q4: Why is degree of saturation important in construction?
A: It affects soil compaction, frost susceptibility, and bearing capacity. Optimal compaction often occurs at 80-90% saturation.

Q5: Can soil have S > 100%?
A: No, this would imply more water than void space, which is physically impossible in normal soil conditions.