I am conducting a soil sampling study to assess changes in bulk density over time, using the excavation method. The ideal pit dimensions are 20 cm x 20 cm x 50 cm (total depth). To ensure consistency in sample mass across time, I plan to utilize the spline function to determine mass equivalence, necessitating sampling in increments. However, the soil's highly rocky nature makes the use of traditional augers or probes impractical. What would be the most accurate way to determine the bulk density of an increment, considering that whatever is placed in the pit must be removed to dig the next increment. The pit walls and floor are often irregular or slanted, which might influence the volume calculation.
"Brute force" it, i.e., dig your increment and put all the dug out soil into an IKEA bag, weigh it with a luggage scale. For the volume: Put a large trash bag in your hole and fill it with water to determine the volume. Do it for each increment and you should be able to calculate the bulk density for each increment.
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