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The value of specific gravity for most of the soils lies around
1
2
68
1
68
Specific gravity (GsтАЛ) of soil solids is defined as the ratio of the mass of a given volume of soil solids to the mass of an equal volume of distilled water at a specified temperature. For most inorganic soils, specifically those dominated by silica and quartz, the value typically ranges between 2.6 and 2.7.
Specific gravity (GsтАЛ) of soil solids is defined as the ratio of the mass of a given volume of soil solids to the mass of an equal volume of distilled water at a specified temperature. For most inorganic soils, specifically those dominated by silica and quartz, the value typically ranges between 2.6 and 2.7.
GsтАЛ=VsтАЛтЛЕ╬│wтАЛWsтАЛтАЛ тАФ Basic definition of specific gravity of solids
GsтАЛ=╬│wтАЛ╬│sтАЛтАЛ тАФ Alternative representation using unit weights
The value of GsтАЛ is primarily influenced by the mineralogical composition of the soil particles. Since quartz (the most common mineral in soil) has a specific gravity of approximately 2.65, most natural sandy and silty soils exhibit values clustering around 2.65 to 2.68. Soils containing heavy minerals like iron oxides will show higher values, whereas organic soils exhibit significantly lower values.
Typical range for inorganic soils is 2.60 to 2.80.
Organic soils can have GsтАЛ as low as 1.2 to 2.0.
Iron-rich minerals (e.g., magnetite, hematite) result in GsтАЛ values greater than 3.0.
Specific gravity is a fundamental property used to calculate void ratio, degree of saturation, and unit weight.
Used to identify mineral types.
Essential parameter for phase relationship calculations in soil mechanics.
Does not account for the shape or size of particles.
Requires precise temperature control for accurate laboratory measurement.
Void ratio and porosity determination.
Classification of soils for geotechnical engineering design.
Assessment of soil compaction characteristics.
The standard temperature for reporting GsтАЛ is usually 27┬░C in India (IS code), though 20┬░C is common internationally.
Option D (3.1) is generally associated with heavier iron-rich minerals rather than typical quartz-based soil.
C is correct тАФ The specific gravity for most common inorganic soils like quartz and feldspar falls within the range of 2.65 to 2.68.
Always remember that GsтАЛ is a dimensionless quantity; if a question asks for units, it is always a trick!