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Percolation rate describes how long it takes for standing water in a hole to move through the bottom and the walls of that hole.

Basically, a hole with known dimensions is made, usually with a soil auger, post hole digger or shovel, and then a volume of water is added to the hole. The depth to the water surface is then measured. The surface of the water in the hole will drop as the water seeps into the soil. The depth to the water surface is measured repeatedly at set intervals (let's say these intervals are 10 minutes apart, for the sake of this question). Then, after each measurement, more water is added to the hole to fill it up to that original level, again.

Normally, when water is first added to the hole, the water will move through the soil fairly quickly. As the soil become saturated (all pores fill with water), the rate of water loss in the hole will slow down. When it reaches a steady rate of loss, that rate is taken as the percolation rate.

For example: After repeatedly measuring water levels, you find that the water level drops 3 cm every ten minutes. The percolation rate for that hole would be:

10min/3cm = 3.33 cm/min.

This percolation rate can only be realistically compared to percolation tests run with the same size hole, with the same depth of water.

Percolation tests for percolation rates are quick and dirty ways to estimate the soil's saturated hydraulic conductivity(Ksat). They are of limited value in comparison to actually running a Ksat measurement, which is directly comparable to other Ksat measurements, regardless of the size of the hole, how much water was put into it, and (hopefully) the scientist or technician running the test.

Some US states still use "perc tests" to determine the size and design of septic systems that they will allow a landowner to build on his/her property. One method, apparently used in Minnesota, can be found at the link.

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Q: How do you calculate percolation rate?
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Related questions

What is percolation rate?

Percolation rate is the speed at which water moves through soil or rock. It is an important factor in determining water infiltration and drainage capabilities of a certain material or site. Factors like soil composition, porosity, and compaction influence the percolation rate.


Which soil has the lowest percolation rate and what is it in mm per second?

Clay soil generally has the lowest percolation rate, with an average rate of around 0.006 mm per second. This slow percolation rate is due to the tiny particle size and high density of clay soil, which restricts the movement of water through it.


What is the percolation rate of red soil?

The percolation rate of red soil can vary depending on factors such as soil texture, structure, and compaction. Generally, red soil has a moderate to high percolation rate, allowing water to pass through relatively quickly. However, it is important to consider the specific conditions of the soil to determine the exact percolation rate.


How is the percolation rate related to the soil quantity?

The percolation rate is related to the soil quantity in that the more soil present, the slower the percolation rate tends to be. This is because a greater amount of soil can absorb and retain water, reducing the flow of water through the soil. Conversely, with less soil, the percolation rate may be faster as there is less material to impede water flow.


What is Percolation rate of red soil?

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What is the percolation rate of loamy soil?

The percolation rate of loamy soil can vary depending on factors such as organic matter content, compaction, and soil structure. On average, loamy soil has a moderate to high percolation rate, allowing water to drain through it relatively easily compared to clayey soil. This makes loamy soil well-suited for a variety of crops and plants.


What is the percolation rate of sand?

The percolation rate of sand can vary depending on factors such as grain size, compaction, and moisture content. Generally, sand has a moderate to high percolation rate, allowing water to move through it relatively quickly compared to soil with smaller particle sizes like clay.


What is the percolation rate of clayey soil?

The percolation rate of clayey soil is generally slow due to its small particle size and high water retention capacity. This means that water moves slowly through clayey soil, which can lead to waterlogging and poor drainage in the soil profile. Improving soil structure through amendments like organic matter can help to increase percolation rates in clayey soils.


How is percolation rate related to the quality of soil?

Percolation rate is the speed at which water moves through soil. A faster percolation rate indicates good soil quality because it allows for better water drainage, preventing waterlogging and promoting healthy root growth. Conversely, a slow percolation rate can lead to waterlogging, compaction, and nutrient leaching, which can degrade soil quality.


What are some possible causes for a change in percolation rate of soil?

The possible causes for a change in the percolation rate of soil include soil's moisture content, topographic conditions, and the amount of coarse material in the soil.


What is the Rate of percolation in black soil?

The rate of percolation in black soil can vary depending on factors such as soil composition, organic matter content, and compaction. In general, black soil is known for its good water-holding capacity and moderate to high percolation rate, allowing water to flow through the soil easily while retaining some moisture. This makes black soil suitable for agriculture as it provides both drainage and moisture retention for plant growth.


What are the factors influencing percolation?

Factors influencing percolation include soil composition, slope gradient, land cover, and precipitation patterns. Soil with high porosity and permeability allows for faster percolation, while impermeable surfaces like concrete hinder percolation. Steeper slopes increase the rate of percolation, while vegetation can slow down percolation by intercepting and storing water. Higher intensity and frequency of precipitation events can lead to faster percolation rates.