Question 27
SoilIn an experiment to estimate the volume of air in a soil sample using a measuring cylinder, it was found that:
Initial volume of water = p cm3
Volume of soil before mixing with water = q cm3
Final volume of water after adding soil = r cm3
From the data above, which of the following deductions is correct?
- A.r = p + q
- B.r > p + q
- C.q = r - p
- D.r < p + q.
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: D (r < p + q.)
Explanation
When soil is added, water replaces the air in its pores, so the final volume r is smaller than p + q; the difference is the volume of air.