What does soil percolation testing assess?

Soil percolation testing is specifically designed to assess the rate at which water moves through the soil. This is a critical factor in determining the suitability of the soil for septic system installation. The results of the percolation test help in understanding how well the soil can absorb and filter effluent from the septic system. A suitable percolation rate ensures that the wastewater can be effectively treated and does not lead to issues such as surface ponding or groundwater contamination.

The other options focus on different aspects of soil science. While acidity influences plant growth and nutrient availability, it is not directly related to how water moves through the soil. Nutritional value pertains to the soil's capacity to support plant life and does not provide insights into water movement. Similarly, depth to the groundwater table is important for assessing how close water sources are to the septic system but does not pertain to the rate of infiltration or percolation of water in the soil itself. Thus, understanding the percolation rate is crucial for septic system design and effectiveness.