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GATE 2020 CE (CE2) – Question 21

Geotechnical Engineering · Three-phase system, phase relationships, index properties and soil classification · 1 mark · Multiple choice

500 g dry sand poured into a partially water-filled 2 litre cylinder displaces 188 cm³ water. Water density is 1 g/cm³. Find sand specific gravity.

  1. 2.72
  2. 2.66
  3. 2.55
  4. 2.52

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Correct answer: (B) 2.66

Explanation

Displaced water gives sand-solid volume 188 cm³. Solid density is $500/188=2.65957$ g/cm³. Divide by water density 1 g/cm³ to obtain **2.66, B**.