A compression test is a method used to evaluate the strength and durability of materials, particularly in construction and engineering. During this test, a sample material, such as concrete or soil, is subjected to increasing pressure until it fails. The results help determine how much load the material can withstand before breaking, which is crucial for ensuring safety and stability in structures. This test is commonly performed on materials like concrete, asphalt, and soil to assess their performance under load. Engineers use the data from compression tests to make informed decisions about material selection and design, ensuring that buildings and infrastructure can support the expected weight and forces.