Final answer:
The question addresses environmental science specifically, the capability of automatic line leak detectors by a given date. Leak detectors must align with federal standards to minimize soil and water contamination.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to environmental science and regulations concerning the capability of automatic line leak detectors (ALLDs) for underground storage tanks (USTs). Established guidelines require ALLDs to detect leaks that may pose environmental concerns due to potential contamination of groundwater. By December 22nd, 1998, it became mandatory for ALLDs installed on single walled pressurized piping to be capable of detecting leaks at a threshold that aligns with federal environmental protection standards. These regulations were set forth to minimize the risk of soil and water contamination by ensuring the swift detection and response to leaks in UST systems.