In which situation is compaction most likely to be a problem?

Compaction is a significant concern in situations where soil has a high density and low porosity, which makes it difficult for air, water, and nutrients to penetrate. Clay-based soil inherently has small particles that are closely packed together. When this type of soil experiences heavy traffic, such as from foot traffic or maintenance vehicles on a golf course, it is particularly prone to compaction. This compaction can lead to poor drainage, root growth issues, and overall adverse effects on turf health.

In contrast, loamy soil generally has a mixture of sand, silt, and clay, making it more versatile and less prone to heavy compaction. Sandy soil tends to drain well and is less affected by foot traffic because of its larger particle size and lower density. Rocky soil has larger fragments that also allow for better drainage and less compaction.

Thus, in the context of golfing operations, the situation with clay-based soil under heavy traffic stands out as the most problematic for compaction, directly impacting course maintenance and playability.