What term describes the ability of soil to transmit water effectively?

The term that describes the ability of soil to transmit water effectively is permeability. This property is critical in understanding how water moves through soil layers and affects various aspects of onsite sewage facilities. Permeability refers to how easily water can flow through the soil's interconnected pores, which is essential for the function of septic systems and the proper treatment of wastewater.

When evaluating soil for the installation of OSSFs, assessing its permeability helps determine if the soil can adequately absorb and filter effluent. High permeability indicates that water can move swiftly, which may enhance the treatment process in certain conditions, while low permeability might lead to potential issues such as surface ponding or inadequate filtration.

Porosity, while related, measures the volume of the void spaces in soil and does not necessarily reflect the rate at which water can move through those spaces. Specific yield refers to the amount of water that can be drained from the soil under the influence of gravity, which is another distinct characteristic. Retention pertains to the soil's capacity to hold onto water, which influences water availability for plants and overall soil moisture but does not describe water's movement through the soil. Understanding permeability is essential for ensuring proper functionality and environmental protection in onsite sewage systems.