Question

question 30
which of the following would be least susceptible to slope failure?
a gently sloping hill in a dry desert region.
a cliff at the shoreline of the ocean.
a gently sloping hill with a river at the base of the hill.
a steep hill that has recently been deforested.

Explanation:

• A gently - sloping hill in a dry desert region: Gentle slope reduces gravitational force component along the slope. Dry conditions mean less water - related weakening (e.g., no pore - water pressure increase from saturation).
• A cliff at the shoreline of the ocean: Wave action can erode the base, increasing instability.
• A gently - sloping hill with a river at the base: River erosion at the base can undercut the slope, leading to failure.
• A steep hill that has been deforested: Steep slope has a larger gravitational force component. Deforestation removes root reinforcement.

Answer:

A gently sloping hill in a dry desert region.