Study GuideGeology–Mass WasƟng1. PrevenƟon of Mass WasƟngMass wastingcan often be prevented—or at least reduced—through careful planning and smartengineering. Many slope failures happen because human activities accidentally make slopes lessstable.1.1 How Human AcƟviƟes Increase RiskCertain actions can greatly increase the chance of mass wasting:•Undercutting the base of a slope, such as cutting into a hillside for a road•Adding weight to the top of a slopeby building large structures•Removing vegetation, which normally helps hold soil in place with roots•Saturating the ground with water, which adds weight and reduces friction between particlesWhen these factors combine, slopes become much more likely to fail.1.2 Engineering SoluƟons to Reduce Mass WasƟngEngineers use several methods to stabilize slopes and reduce danger:•Retaining walls and barriershelp hold soil and rock in place•Drainage pipesremove excess water, preventing soil from becoming too heavy and slippery•Terracingbreaks a steep slope into a series of smaller, flatter steps, reducing the force ofgravity•Revegetation(replanting grasses, shrubs, or trees) helps anchor soil quickly afterconstructionThese methods are often used together for maximum effectiveness.Preview Mode
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