A retaining wall is a structure designed to resist the lateral pressure of soil when there is a desired change in ground elevation that exceeds the angle of repose of the soil. These walls are commonly used in civil engineering to support soil mass laterally so that it can be retained at different levels on the two sides.

The stability of a retaining wall is crucial to ensure its effectiveness in holding back soil and preventing slope failure. Several factors influence the stability of a retaining wall:

Wall Height: Taller walls experience greater lateral pressure from the retained soil, requiring stronger construction and more robust design.

Soil Type: The type of soil behind the wall affects its stability. Cohesive soils such as clay exert more lateral pressure compared to granular soils like sand.

Water Content: Saturation of the soil can significantly increase lateral pressure, leading to instability. Proper drainage systems are often incorporated into retaining wall designs to manage water buildup.

Wall Material and Design: The material used for constructing the wall, as well as its design $($such as the shape, reinforcement, and anchoring$),$ greatly influence its stability.

Surcharge Load: Additional loads placed on top of the retained soil, such as buildings or vehicles, can increase lateral pressure on the wall and impact its stability.

Foundation Conditions: The stability of the foundation supporting the retaining wall is crucial. Poor foundation conditions can lead to settlement or tilting of the wall, compromising its stability.

Objective Question:

Which factor primarily influences the stability of a retaining wall?

A$)$ Surcharge load

B$)$ Wall height

C$)$ Soil type

D$)$ Foundation conditions