Monoculture Definition The term “Monoculture,” in the fields of farming and agriculture, refers to a cultivation system that comprises only one organism. For instance, an entire crop field that only grows carrots. In a monoculture, there is no symbiosis between different species. As a result, there isn’t any comingling with other organisms. In fact, for…

Runoff (R) The term “Runoff” (R) in hydrogeology and geology refers to the part of rainfall which accumulates on the ground surface and naturally forms into flowing streams.

Ultramafic Definition In the study of geology, the term “ultramafic” refers to an igneous rock that comprises up to 90% mafic minerals, or more.

Hooke’s Law “Hooke’s Law” is a geological statement relating to the elastic deformation of rocks.  Hooke’s Law states the strain of an earth-material is linearly proportional to the applied stress.

Dry Density (ρd) “Dry Density” (ρd) is a value that represents the density of soil when it is completely dry. To illustrate, it equates to (“bulk density” / 1) + “water content.” This is a common geotechnical engineering laboratory procedure. Dry Density Formula Dry Density = [(Bulk Density ÷ 1) + (Water Content)]

Topple Definition Topple – Slope movement due to forces that cause an overturning moment about a pivot point below the center of gravity of the unit.