Why is sampling conducted in the field?

Sampling in the field is essential for various reasons, but obtaining samples of materials present on the site is fundamentally important. This process allows for a direct assessment of the actual conditions of the materials involved in a project. Field sampling is designed to physically collect materials such as soil, rock, and other substances from the site, which can then be analyzed in a laboratory setting or evaluated on site for properties like texture, moisture content, and compaction.

This collected data is crucial for decision-making in construction, earthwork, and engineering projects. It informs site preparation, material selection, and construction techniques that will be appropriate for the specific conditions of the site. Understanding the existing materials aids in predicting how they will behave under load and in response to environmental factors over time.

In contrast, analyzing soil composition, complying with environmental regulations, and gathering historical data are important aspects of fieldwork but are often outcomes or goals of the sampling process rather than the primary reason for conducting it. The goal of sampling is to create a reliable representation of the material conditions at the site, which all subsequent analyses depend on.