Soil compaction refers to the process of squeezing out all the air pockets from the soil, making it denser and more tightly packed. It is a common problem that often arises in urban and suburban areas because of frequent traffic, heavy machinery, or excessive foot traffic. Other synonyms that represent the same concept as soil compaction include soil densification, soil consolidation, and soil compression. All of these terms refer to the same process of reducing the pore spaces within the soil, thereby reducing the air and water movement within it. Soil compaction can lead to decreased soil quality and fertility, which can ultimately affect the growth of vegetation.