How is water moisture content expressed in soils?

Water moisture content in soils is expressed as a percentage of the mass of water held in the soil compared to the mass of the dry soil particles. This measurement is essential in geotechnical engineering as it helps determine the physical properties of the soil, including its compaction, stability, and behavior under load.

Measuring moisture content in this way provides a clear and standardized framework to compare different soil types and their water retention characteristics. It also allows for calculations related to soil performance and enhances the ability to predict how soil will behave under various environmental conditions and loads. The use of mass for this measurement, instead of volume, ensures that variables such as soil density are accounted for, leading to more accurate assessments of soil condition and inform practical engineering decisions.