What does the coefficient of permeability measure?

The coefficient of permeability is a crucial parameter in geotechnical engineering and hydrology, as it quantifies the ability of soil to transmit water. Specifically, it measures the rate at which water can flow through saturated soil. This property is essential for understanding drainage, the stability of slopes, and the behavior of soil in various construction applications.

When considering the rate of flow of water through soil, the coefficient of permeability indicates how easily water can move through the soil's interstitial pores under a specified gradient. It is heavily influenced by factors such as soil type (e.g., clay, sand, gravel), void ratio, and degree of saturation.

Understanding this concept is fundamental for contractors and engineers alike, as it impacts decisions related to site preparation, stormwater management, and foundation design. The other options refer to properties of soil that pertain to its structural behavior and characteristics, but do not relate to the movement of water through soil, which is the focus of the coefficient of permeability.