Final answer:
The test to check soil preparation and moisture for concrete slab installation is a Soil Test and is essential to assess qualities like field capacity and horizon composition.
Step-by-step explanation:
The test to determine the adequacy of soil preparation and moisture content to install a concrete slab on grade is called a Soil Test. This encompasses checking for various soil characteristics, which includes soil composition, layers, and importantly, the moisture content. Determining the moisture content is crucial as it impacts the soil's field capacity, which is the amount of water the soil can hold against the force of gravity, and its permanent wilting point, which indicates when soil is too dry for plant survival. By testing moisture levels, it can be ensured whether or not the soil has appropriate conditions for concrete slab installation.
Understanding the soil's moisture content requires knowledge of the soil's structure and composition, such as the A, B, and C horizons, and the effect of compaction from machinery or foot traffic. If the soil is too wet or too dry, it could affect the slab's integrity, leading to potential cracking or instability. Soil tests are a necessary step to guarantee the long-term performance of the concrete slab.