What is the Difference Between Gravel and Sand?

The main difference between gravel and sand lies in their size, composition, and usage. Here are the key differences:

• Size: Sand particles are larger than silt but smaller than gravel. Gravel particles are larger than sand particles but smaller than boulders. According to the unified classification system, particle sizes ranging from 4.75mm to 76.2mm are categorized as gravel, while particle sizes of soil in sand range from 0.075mm to 4.75mm.
• Composition: Both sand and gravel are made of the same base material: sediment that has eroded off of larger rocks. However, gravel is chipped or rounded rock fragments, while sand is composed of rock fragments or mineral particles.
• Porosity: Porosity in sand is relatively higher than in gravel.
• Usage: Sand can be used as a raw material in concrete production, while gravel is not typically used. Gravel has a large bearing capacity and is often used to support structures, such as in road surfacing.

In summary, gravel and sand differ primarily in terms of their particle size, composition, and usage. Gravel is composed of larger particles and has a more significant bearing capacity, making it suitable for construction purposes, while sand is finer and can be used as a raw material in concrete production.

Comparative Table: Gravel vs Sand

The main difference between sand and gravel is their size. Here is a table summarizing their characteristics:

Both sand and gravel are loose aggregations of rounded products of erosion, but they differ in their size classifications and common uses.