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Chapter 16: Problem 9

The letters following each Review Question refer to the corresponding Learning Objective from the Chapter Opener. Discuss the role of vegetation in slope stability. Why can fires and deforestation lead to slope failure? (B)

Short Answer

Expert verified
Vegetation plays a critical role in maintaining slope stability by reinforcing soil structure, providing protection against erosion, and reducing water infiltration. Plant roots anchor the soil, and leaves and stems absorb rainwater. Fires and deforestation weaken soil structure and remove root systems, leading to an increased likelihood of slope failure. Slope failure can result in soil erosion, habitat loss, property damage, and even loss of human life.

Step by step solution

01

Understand slope stability

Slope stability refers to the ability of a slope to maintain its structure and resist erosion, landslides, and other forms of mass movement. It is influenced by various factors such as slope angle, soil properties, water content, and vegetation.
02

The role of vegetation in slope stability

Vegetation plays an essential role in maintaining slope stability, primarily by reinforcing the soil structure and providing protection against erosion. The root systems of plants and trees anchor the soil, helping it to retain its structure, resist the effects of gravitational forces, and prevent landslides. The leaves and stems of plants also absorb rainwater, reducing water infiltration into the soil, which reduces the chances of slope failure caused by soil saturation.
03

Fires and deforestation impacts on slope stability

Fires and deforestation, both natural and man-made, pose significant risks to slope stability as they lead to the removal or damage of vegetation. When fires occur, they can burn plant roots and organic matter, which weakens soil structure and reduces its ability to resist mass movement. Similarly, deforestation involves the removal of trees and other vegetation, eliminating the rooting systems that anchor the soil and provide structural support.
04

Consequences of slope failure

Slope failure can have various consequences, both environmental and societal. These may include soil erosion, loss of wildlife habitat, reduced water quality, property damage, destruction of infrastructure, and even loss of human life. The removal or damage of vegetation due to fires or deforestation, therefore, can directly contribute to these negative outcomes by increasing the likelihood of slope failure. To sum up, vegetation is crucial in maintaining slope stability. The removal of vegetation through fires and deforestation can lead to weakened soil structure and increased likelihood of slope failure, causing various ecological, economic, and social consequences.

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