Soil mechanics testing is a fundamental element of geotechnical engineering. It is used to obtain information on the physical properties of soil used in earthworks and foundations, as well as the stress applied to these structures by surface and subsurface conditions. Soil mechanics provides the theoretical basis for analysis of soils in geotechnical engineering. These tests are used to analyze the deformation of the soil and the flow of fluids within natural and man-made structures that are supported on or made of soil, including structures that are buried in soils. Example applications are building and bridge foundations, retaining walls, dams, and buried pipeline systems. The principles of soil mechanics are also used in related disciplines such as engineering geology, geophysical engineering, coastal engineering, agricultural engineering, hydrology and soil physics.