Ability of the soil to accomplish the desired objective such as its capacity for harvesting crops.
Soil retardant
A chemical finish applied to carpet and fabric surfaces which inhibits attachment of soil to fiber. It is usually a topical treatment but may also be inherent in the fiber.
Soil stack
Largest vertical drain line to which all branch waste lines connect. This line carries waste to the sewer line.
Soil structure
Mixture of the types of soil in a section of land - for example, sand, clay, loam or mineral particles.
Soil survey
Surveying the land to determine its suitability for a specific purpose, such as building a high-rise apartment.
Soil testing
Measuring the nitrogen/phosphorus/potassium, trace elements, minerals, salts, and pH levels of the soil. You can test your own soil with soil testing kits, or send soil samples to your local Cooperative Extension Service office.
Soils test
Test done on the subsoil to determine whether it will safely support a foundation.
Solar access or rights
The legal issues related to protecting or ensuring access to sunlight to operate a solar energy system, or use solar energy for heating and cooling.
Solar air heater
A type of solar thermal system where air is heated in a collector and either transferred directly to the interior space or to a storage medium, such as a rock bin.
Solar altitude angle
The angle between a line from a point on the earth's surface to the center of the solar disc, and a line extending horizontally from the point.
