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An Assessment of Hillslope Stability Using the Factor of Safety
- Author: Laura Moore, Carleton College Science Education Resource Center
- Subject: Science and Technology
- Institution Name: SERC
- Collection: DLESE Community Service Center (SERC)
- Grade Level: Post-secondary
- Abstract: In this homework assignment, students consider the balance of forces on a hillslope using the Factor of Safety by calculating shear stress and shear strength for an example hillslope and formulating an expression for the factor of safety in an Excel spreadsheet. Students then use this spreadsheet to conduct a sensitivity analysis for the purpose of assessing which variables are most important in determining hillslope stability. A series of short answer questions guide students through this process and a series of reflection questions give students the opportunity to consider assumptions and applicability of the factor of safety to the real world. Learning goals, context for use, teaching tips, materials, assessment tips and related resources are provided.
- Course Type: Learning Module
- Languages: English
- Material Types: Activities and Labs
- Media Formats: Text/HTML
- Conditions of Use:
Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 3.0
