1.3. Darcy's Law

Try these first

1. 1.

   Define permeability in the context of soil.

   Hint

   Think about water movement through different soil types.

2. 2.

   What does Darcy's Law describe?

   Hint

   Consider how water flow varies with the slope of the water table.

3. 3.

   What is the flow velocity (v) related to according to Darcy's Law?

   • Hydraulic Gradient
   • Pore Water Pressure
   • Soil Composition

   Hint

   Think of the formula v = k * i.

4. 4.

   True or False: The velocity head is generally considered significant in soil water flow.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Recall the components of total head.

5. 5.

   A soil has a permeability of 0.05 cm/sec. If the hydraulic gradient is measured at 3, what is the flow velocity? What does this say about the potential for water movement?

   Hint

   Use the Darcy's Law formula to find v.

6. 6.

   How would you approach engineering design if you have clay with typical permeability of 10^-9 cm/sec? Consider drainage solutions.

   Hint

   Think about how water pools need to be addressed in your design.