What tool is referenced for determining the load bearing capacity of the soil?

The pocket penetrometer is designed specifically to evaluate the strength and load-bearing capacity of soil. It functions by measuring the resistance of the soil to penetration, which provides a quick assessment of its consistency and, indirectly, its load-bearing potential. This tool is particularly valuable in both construction and real estate, including manufactured housing, as it helps identify whether the soil can support the weight of structures placed upon it.

In contrast, other tools listed serve different primary purposes. Soil gauges may help assess moisture content or compaction but do not directly measure load capacity. Load testers are typically used for more extensive testing and analysis of structural loads rather than soil itself. Pressure plates are utilized in various contexts, such as soil investigation studies, but they also do not directly provide the simple, immediate evaluations that a pocket penetrometer can offer.