Which two factors are commonly used to determine soil permeability for wastewater absorption?

The determination of soil permeability for wastewater absorption primarily requires an understanding of how well soil can transmit water, which is crucial for effective sewage treatment and to prevent groundwater contamination.

The soil percolation test is a vital factor as it measures the rate at which water moves through the soil. This test provides empirical data on the permeability of the soil, which directly informs designers and engineers about how quickly and effectively wastewater can be absorbed into the ground.

On the other hand, soil characteristics encompass various physical and chemical properties of the soil, such as texture, structure, and moisture retention capabilities. These characteristics affect how well the soil will interact with water; for instance, sandy soils usually have higher permeability than clay soils, which can impede water movement.

Together, the results of the soil percolation test and the inherent soil characteristics provide a comprehensive understanding of soil permeability and its suitability for wastewater absorption systems.