What is defined as the angle that the sloping face of a bank makes with the horizontal?

The angle that the sloping face of a bank makes with the horizontal is known as the angle of repose. This term specifically refers to the maximum angle at which a material, such as soil or rock, can rest without sliding due to the force of gravity. The angle of repose is influenced by the properties of the material, including particle size, shape, and moisture content, as well as external factors such as slope steepness and surface conditions.

Understanding the angle of repose is crucial for various applications in grading, drainage, and stormwater management, as it helps in designing stable slopes and embankments, preventing erosion, and ensuring the safety of structures situated near such slopes. This concept is foundational in geotechnical engineering, terrain analysis, and site planning, making it essential knowledge for professionals in the field.

The other choices refer to distinct concepts: antecedent precipitation involves prior rainfall that affects moisture conditions; a bench is a level area or step cut into a slope for stability or access; and bearing capacity pertains to the ability of soil to support loads without failure. Each of these terms plays a role in different aspects of grading and drainage, but none describe the specific relationship between a slope and the horizontal plane like the angle of repose does.