WHEN WEATHERING OCCURS ON HILL SLOPES, ROCK DEBRIS USUALLY PILE UP AT THE BOTTOM OF THE HILL SLOPE TO FORM

• A. creep
• B. levee
• C. pebbles
• D. scree ✓

The answer to the question is: D. scree

When weathering occurs on hill slopes, rock debris usually pile up at the bottom of the hill slope to form a feature known as scree. Scree refers to a collection of broken rock fragments that have accumulated at the base of a cliff or steep slope as a result of weathering and erosion processes. This accumulation of rock debris is typically the result of physical weathering, where rocks are broken down into smaller pieces due to factors such as freeze-thaw cycles, expansion and contraction, and the action of plant roots.

Scree deposits are commonly found in mountainous and hilly regions, where the steep slopes and rugged terrain facilitate the accumulation of loose rock fragments. The formation of scree is often associated with gravity-driven processes, where the broken rock material moves downslope under the influence of gravity. Over time, scree deposits can build up at the base of a slope, creating a distinctive landform characterized by its loose, unconsolidated nature.

The presence of scree can have significant implications for slope stability and erosion control. In some cases, scree deposits may act as a natural barrier, helping to reduce the impact of erosion and mass wasting on the underlying bedrock. Additionally, scree habitats can provide unique ecological niches for specialized plant and animal species that are adapted to thrive in these rocky environments.

Overall, scree represents an important component of mountain landscapes, shaping both the physical and ecological characteristics of these environments.