Chapter 18: Problem 7

What is a quick, hands-on method for determining soil consistence?

Short Answer

Expert verified

The quick, hands-on method for determining soil consistence involves forming a ribbon out of a moist soil sample and measuring the length to which it can elongate before breaking. The longer the ribbon, the higher the soil consistency.

Step by step solution

Gathering required materials

Collect a small amount of soil sample to work with. This small sample can be enough to hold in your hand.

Preliminary Check

Check the moisture content of the soil. The soil should be in a moist state, not too dry or too wet, as it can affect the determination of soil consistency.

Making a soil ribbon

Take the soil sample and try to form a 'ribbon' by squeezing the soil out between your thumb and fingers.

Analyzing the Soil Ribbon

Look at how long the soil ribbon gets before it breaks off. If the soil forms a ribbon that surpasses 1 inch before breaking, it indicates that the soil has a lot of clay and is highly consistent. If the soil forms a short ribbon or doesn't form a ribbon at all, it suggests it has a lot of sand and is low in consistence.

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What is a quick, hands-on method for determining soil consistence?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Gathering required materials

Preliminary Check

Making a soil ribbon

Analyzing the Soil Ribbon

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