What term describes the ability of soil to absorb and allow water and air to pass through?

The concept of permeability refers specifically to the ability of soil or rock to transmit fluids, which is critical for understanding how water and air move through soil. When soil is permeable, it allows both water and air to pass through its pore spaces. This characteristic is essential for various environmental and engineering applications, particularly in wastewater management, as it affects drainage, the movement of contaminants, and the overall health of the ecosystem.

Permeability is influenced by factors such as soil texture, structure, and the presence of organic matter. Soils that are highly permeable, such as sandy soils, allow water to drain through quickly, while less permeable soils, like clay, restrict the movement of water and air. This distinction is vital for designing effective wastewater treatment systems, as it determines how quickly effluents can be absorbed or filtered through the soil.

Other terms like porosity, hydraulic conductivity, and adsorption are related but describe different aspects. Porosity refers to the volume of voids or pores in the soil, while hydraulic conductivity quantifies the ease with which water can move through soil. Adsorption refers to the process by which ions or molecules attach to a surface, which is not directly related to the passage of water or air through soil. Understanding the