When digging footings, what is being created by the dirt that is removed?

When digging footings, the primary purpose is to create a trench that will hold the concrete foundation for a structure. The dirt that is removed in this process is specifically involved in shaping the trench, which is the area that will eventually be filled with concrete.

The trench is crucial because it provides a stable base that distributes the weight of the building above. This action of removing soil to create a defined space for the footing is essential, as it ensures that the concrete will set properly and provide the needed support for the structure.

While a concrete form could be related to the next steps after digging, the immediate result of the excavation itself is the trench, not the concrete form. Thus, recognizing the importance of the trench in foundation work is key for those operating heavy equipment like tractor-loader-backhoes during excavation activities.