Sand Weight Formula:
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The Aquarium Sand Calculator estimates the weight of sand needed for a UK aquarium in pounds. It uses standard aquarium sand density (100 lb/ft³) to calculate the required amount based on your tank dimensions.
The calculator uses the following formula:
Where:
Explanation: The calculation multiplies the volume (length × width × depth) by the standard density of aquarium sand (100 lb per cubic foot).
Details: Proper sand quantity is crucial for aquarium setup. Too little sand may look sparse and affect filtration, while too much can reduce water volume and create dead spots.
Tips: Measure your aquarium dimensions in feet. For depth, consider 1-2 inches (0.08-0.17 ft) for most setups. All values must be positive numbers.
Q1: Why use 100 lb/ft³ as the density?
A: This is the standard density for aquarium sand in the UK. Actual density may vary slightly by brand.
Q2: How do I convert inches to feet?
A: Divide inches by 12. For example, 3 inches = 0.25 feet.
Q3: Is this calculator suitable for saltwater tanks?
A: Yes, the calculation works for both freshwater and saltwater aquarium sand.
Q4: Should I buy extra sand?
A: It's recommended to purchase 10-15% more than calculated to account for settling and washing.
Q5: Can I use this for gravel instead of sand?
A: No, gravel has different density. Use a gravel-specific calculator for accurate results.