Geotechnical Engineering - Slope Stability

Slope Stability

Slope stability is the analysis of soil covered slopes and its potential to undergo movement. Stability is determined by the balance of shear stress and shear strength. A previously stable slope may be initially affected by preparatory factors, making the slope conditionally unstable. Triggering factors of a slope failure can be climatic events can then make a slope actively unstable, leading to mass movements. Mass movements can be caused by increases in shear stress, such as loading, lateral pressure, and transient forces. Alternatively, shear strength may be decreased by weathering, changes in pore water pressure, and organic material.

Read more about this topic:  Geotechnical Engineering

Famous quotes containing the word stability:

    Chastity is the cement of civilization and progress. Without it there is no stability in society, and without it one cannot attain the Science of Life.
    Mary Baker Eddy (1821–1910)