Slope stability analysis by method of slices The “method of slices” (e.g., ordinary/Fellenius, Bishop, Morgenstern–Price) is applicable to which types of slopes and soil conditions in practical geotechnical engineering?

Introduction / Context:
The method of slices is a family of limit-equilibrium techniques used to evaluate the factor of safety against slope failure. By dividing the potential sliding mass into vertical slices, interslice forces and moments can be equilibrated using different assumptions, making the approach broadly applicable in practice.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Unknown slip surface geometry (circular or noncircular) permitted.
• Shear strength modeled via c–φ with effective or total stress.
• Groundwater and pore pressures can be included.

Concept / Approach:

Ordinary (Swedish), Bishop simplified, Janbu simplified/rigorous, and Morgenstern–Price methods all fall within the slices framework. These methods can analyze homogeneous and heterogenous (stratified) slopes, saturated or partially saturated conditions, and non-uniform geometries, depending on chosen assumptions about interslice shear and normal forces and the accuracy desired.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Comparison among methods: Bishop simplified is accurate for circular slips; Morgenstern–Price is rigorous for both force and moment equilibrium and noncircular surfaces, confirming broad applicability.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Limiting the method to only homogeneous, only stratified, only saturated, or only non-uniform slopes contradicts its established scope.

Common Pitfalls:

Ignoring pore pressure; using inappropriate strength parameters; assuming one method universally conservative without validation.

Final Answer:

All of the above (wide application across soil profiles and slope geometries)