1. What is a Porosity Percentage Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the porosity percentage of soil or rock by comparing void volume to total volume.

Purpose: It helps geologists, civil engineers, and soil scientists assess the void space in a material which affects fluid storage and movement.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( P \) — Porosity percentage (%)
• \( V_v \) — Void volume (m³)
• \( V_t \) — Total volume (m³)

Explanation: The void volume is divided by total volume and multiplied by 100 to get the porosity percentage.

3. Importance of Porosity Calculation

Details: Porosity affects water retention, drainage, and suitability for construction or agriculture. Higher porosity means more fluid storage capacity.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the void volume and total volume in cubic meters. Void volume must be ≤ total volume. Both values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is considered normal porosity for soil?
A: Typical soil porosity ranges from 30-60%, with sandy soils at the lower end and clay soils at the higher end.

Q2: How do I measure void volume?
A: Void volume can be measured by saturating the sample and measuring the volume of water held in the pores.

Q3: What's the difference between porosity and permeability?
A: Porosity measures void space, while permeability measures how easily fluids can flow through the material.

Q4: Can porosity exceed 100%?
A: No, porosity is always between 0-100% as void volume cannot exceed total volume.

Q5: Why is porosity important in agriculture?
A: It affects root growth, water availability, and oxygen supply to plant roots.