Question:

The unit for the coefficient of permeability of a soil is

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The coefficient of permeability (also called hydraulic conductivity, denoted \(k\)) measures how easily water flows through a soil.
Updated On: Jun 16, 2026
  • cm/s
  • cm s
  • \(\text{cm/s}^2\)
  • \(\text{cm s}^2\)
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Concept:
The coefficient of permeability (also called hydraulic conductivity, denoted \(k\)) measures how easily water flows through a soil. It is defined through Darcy's law, where the velocity of flow equals \(k\) times the hydraulic gradient.

Step 1:
In Darcy's law, \(v = k\,i\). The hydraulic gradient \(i\) is the ratio of head loss to length, which is a length divided by a length, so it has no units (dimensionless).

Step 2:
Since \(i\) is dimensionless, \(k\) must carry the same units as velocity \(v\). Velocity is a length per time, so \(k\) is expressed in cm/s.

Answer: Option (1) — cm/s.
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