Question

independent practice
when will the water content of the soil on a hillside most likely trigger a mass movement?
a. when the soil is moist but not soaked, such as after a gentle rain
b. when the soil is very dry, such as during a drought
c. when the soil is fully soaked with water, such as after heavy rains

Explanation:

Mass movement (like landslides) of soil on a hillside is triggered when the soil's weight increases due to water, reducing friction. When soil is fully soaked (after heavy rains), water fills pores, adds weight, and reduces shear strength, making mass movement more likely. Moist soil (A) has less water, and dry soil (B) has low weight from water, so they're less likely to trigger it.

Answer:

C. when the soil is fully soaked with water, such as after heavy rains