Phase relationships and soil states

What this module covers

• Draw and label the three-phase model of a soil
• Define void ratio, porosity, water content, degree of saturation and specific gravity
• Derive n = e/(1+e) and the Se = wGs identity from the phase model
• Derive the bulk, dry, saturated and submerged unit weights
• Compute a soil's state and unit weights from measured quantities
• Place a fine soil on the plasticity scale using the liquidity index

Lessons

1. 5.1

   The three-phase model

   Volumes and masses of solids, water and air, and the ratios that describe them.

   Start lesson →
2. 5.2

   The Se = wGs identity and unit weights

   Derive the master identity and the four unit weights, then compute a real soil state.

   Start lesson →
3. 5.3

   Consistency limits and soil state

   Atterberg limits, plasticity and the liquidity index that places a clay on its state scale.

   Start lesson →