What should be placed beneath the valve assembly to check for leakage during the test?

Placing a piece of paper beneath the valve assembly during a leakage test serves a practical purpose in detecting fluid leaks. The paper will visibly absorb any water or fluid that escapes from the valve assembly, allowing the technician to easily identify if there is leakage occurring. When monitoring wells, it's important to detect any leaks promptly, as they can indicate a need for maintenance or repair of the system to prevent water wastage or contamination.

Using alternative materials like a pressure gauge would not provide direct feedback on leaks, as it primarily tracks pressure levels rather than liquid. A wet cloth could become saturated quickly and may not clearly show whether a leak is occurring, while a container might capture the leak but complicates the detection process by hiding the presence of water when it is contained. In contrast, the paper method offers simplicity and immediate visibility for effective monitoring.