What term describes the process of compressing loose soil into a solid mass?

The term that describes the process of compressing loose soil into a solid mass is compaction. Compaction is a crucial procedure in civil engineering and construction because it helps to increase the density of the soil, which enhances its load-bearing capacity and stability. By applying mechanical force—often through the use of heavy machinery such as rollers or compactors—loose soil particles are packed more closely together, reducing the air pockets within the soil. This process minimizes settlement and improves overall support for structures built on or within the soil.

Consolidation, while related, specifically refers to the gradual process of volume reduction in saturated soil due to the expulsion of water over time, which is not directly the same as the immediate action of compacting. Excavation involves removing soil or rock from a site, and compression typically refers to the act of compressing a material more generally, rather than specific to soil. Therefore, in the context of soil treatment to create a stable foundation or to prepare for construction, compaction is the accurate term.