Firefighter 1C Wildland Practice Exam

What may cause a rock to dislodge from soil?

1. A rock fracture due to heat from a fire

2. Supporting vegetation may have burned away

3. Both A and B are correct

4. None of the above

The correct answer is: Both A and B are correct

Supporting vegetation plays a critical role in maintaining soil stability. When vegetation is present, it helps to anchor the soil with its root systems, reducing the likelihood of soil erosion and rock dislodgment. However, when a fire occurs, especially a wildland fire, the intense heat can cause the supporting vegetation to burn away. As a result, the roots that stabilize the soil are removed, increasing the risk of rocks becoming dislodged. In addition to the loss of vegetation, heat from a fire can also impact the physical properties of rocks. High temperatures may cause rocks to fracture or break, further contributing to their potential dislodgment from the soil. Therefore, both factors mentioned—loss of vegetation and the effects of heat on the rocks—can collectively lead to rocks being dislodged from the soil. Considering both aspects provides a comprehensive understanding of how wildfires can affect geological stability, which is why the combination of these two causes is the correct answer.