Sieve Analysis Simulation
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The Java applet on the left simulates a laboratory experiment that is used to characterize the grain size distribution curve for a given soil. Before using the applet, please read the operating instructions by clicking on the Info tab. The results of the simulation can be viewed by clicking on the Data tab. These tabs are located at the top of the applet.
      A new experiment can be started by selecting a soil from the list of seven different soils given below. The mass of the soil sample before sieving can be recorded by clicking the Record Mass of the Sample button. After completing the sieving and the hydrometer analysis, the mass of soil retained on individual sieves can be recorded in the Reading column using the Record Mass Retained on Each Sieve button. After you have finished entering the calculated values in the third, the fourth and the fifth column, you can submit your results by clicking on the Submit Results button.
Soil Type:  
Mass of an empty sieve: 

Mass of the sample:    
Assignment
Select any soil from the list of soils. Use the java simulation above to obtain a grain-size distribution curve for this soil. Please read the instructions carefully before using the simulation. You are required to sketch the grain-size distribution curve either by hand on a graph paper or using a spreadsheet. For this purpose, you'll need the calculated values in the fifth column of the table (percent passing).
Sieve Size Reading Mass
Retained
Mass
Passing
Percent
Passing