A stream is cutting into a valley wall.Which of the following is the most likely trigger for a mass wasting event?
A)The stream will saturate the slope and generate a mudflow.
B)The stream erodes the toe of the slope, which results in the slope becoming oversteepened.
C)Upslope trees will be removed, reducing slope strength.
D)The stream will deposit extra sediment on the slope, increasing the weight on the slope.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

As the stream erodes the toe of the slope, it can create an oversteepened slope which is more prone to mass wasting events such as landslides or rockfalls. The other options may also contribute to a mass wasting event, but are not as directly related to the stream cutting into the valley wall.

A Stream Is Cutting into a Valley Wall