DrainageBasinSystem–iiTheSlopeSub-system山坡次系统.PPT

Drainage Basin System – (ii)??The Slope Sub-system (山坡次系統) (A)? Definition: The land surface of the earth is that it is largely made up of slopes. Most have a cover of weathered materials, called regolith. It is being carried down the slope by processes of transportation (1) FORMS: Nearly, all slopes consist of a number of distinct parts : Each part called a segment Facet - a rectilinear segment Elements - convex or concave profile. Free face (fall face) - when a facet is at an angle of more than 45 . (2)PROCESS refers to the agents that are bringing about changes in slope form, for example, the effect of rain,etc (3)EVOLUTION: As a result of the action of processes, slope form changes in the course of time. This changes, from past form to present form, is the evolution of the slope. (D). Factors affecting the stability of slope  1.??? Explanation: It depends on the relative balance between the forces (stresses) which tends to induce movement and the resistance (strength) which tends to prevent it. Look at the following diagrams, insert “stable slope” or “unstable slope in the brackets provided.  2.??? Where do the stresses and strength come from ? Stresses: “Gravity exerts a constant pull on all earth materials. Several other forces are at work on them: flowing water, raindrop impact, wind or moving ice.” Strength: “ Weathered material would not slide down for the fact that it posses a certain strength. First, all particles have rough surfaces, which results in friction between touching particles. Secondly, the shape of the particles may cause them to interlock rather as the pieces of a jigsaw puzzle interlock. Finally, the clay particles of the weathered material attract each other by electric forces which produce cohesion between particles.” slope instability, therefore, is caused by increase in stress or decrease in strength of the slope-forming materials. Factors leading to a decrease in strength (resistance) ? 1.?