2006-09-15 12:05:30 · 4 answers · asked by unknown 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Earth Sciences & Geology
they are based on size... sand is bigger (in diameter) than 2 mm, silt is between 2 and .0625 mm, and clay is smaller than .0625 mm.
2006-09-15 12:11:56 · answer #1 · answered by QFL 24-7 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
If you can see individual grains then it's a sand. To differentiate between silt and clay then you literally need to suck it and see. Pop a small amount in your mouth and rub it (gently) against your teeth. If it feels gritty then it's a silt. Smooth as silk then it's a clay. Remember not to swallow (spit) and then maybe give your mouth a rinse and treat yourself to a sweetie.
2006-09-17 17:59:16 · answer #2 · answered by drcswalker 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sand grains are visible to the eye, but 1/16t to 2mm in diameter. Silt grains are not visible to the eye, but are gritty in your mouth. Clay is very small (<1/512th mm), and is not gritty. Beware of combinations!!!!
2006-09-15 21:23:37 · answer #3 · answered by David A 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
In the field, usually you don't have measurement tools, so most people test by feel.
Sand is loose, gritty, each grain is visible to the naked eye.
Silt is finer, feels smoother, much smaller pieces, sticks together fairly well. Some larger grains will be visible.
Clay is very fine. You may not be able to feel individual grains, and it will stick together very well. You will not be able to easily see that there are individual grains.
2006-09-15 19:20:18 · answer #4 · answered by Ben 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋