Soil properties are measured from direct observations in the field or laboratory. Examples of soil properties are bulk density, cation-exchange capacity, organic matter, particle-size distribution, and soil moisture status.
Soil interpretations/qualities are behavior and performance attributes of the soil that cannot be directly measured. They are developed from observations of dynamic conditions and from soil properties. Examples of soil interpretations/qualities are AASHTO, corrosion, drainage class, frost action, and wind erodibility.
