Which effect critically limited the sustainable height of pre-Columbian Andean agricultural terraces?

💡 Explanation

When terrace heights increased, the hydrostatic pressure on retaining walls increased because pore water pressure accumulated behind poorly drained terrace fills, threatening wall stability. Therefore wall collapses limited height, rather than solar effects, nutrient loss, or pest issues, which are less dependent on height.

• Which structural failure mode posed the greatest risk to unsupported sections during Roman stone fortification wall construction?
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