ASC Avalanche Formation & Terrain Recognition

Question 1

What is the most common trigger for avalanches?

Accepted Answer

Human activity

Answer

Earthquakes

Answer

Snowfall

Answer

Wind

Question 2

Which slope angle range is most prone to avalanches?

Accepted Answer

30–45 degrees

Answer

10–20 degrees

Answer

20–30 degrees

Answer

Over 60 degrees

Question 3

What terrain feature can increase avalanche risk?

Accepted Answer

Convex slopes

Answer

Concave slopes

Answer

Flat meadows

Answer

Forest paths

Question 4

What is a 'persistent weak layer' in avalanche terms?

Accepted Answer

An old snow layer prone to collapse

Answer

A recently fallen snow layer

Answer

A compacted layer from hikers

Answer

Surface hoar on rocks

Question 5

Which sign indicates potential avalanche conditions?

Accepted Answer

Whumpfing sounds

Answer

Clear skies

Answer

Wind-packed snow

Answer

Snowmobile tracks

Question 6

How does wind affect avalanche formation?

Accepted Answer

Deposits snow on leeward slopes

Answer

Prevents snowpack formation

Answer

Creates ice layers

Answer

Builds slabs on windward slopes

Question 7

Which tool is essential for evaluating avalanche terrain?

Accepted Answer

Inclinometer

Answer

Snow saw

Answer

Avalanche beacon

Answer

Thermometer

Question 8

Why are north-facing slopes often riskier in winter?

Accepted Answer

They stay colder and preserve weak layers

Answer

They receive more sunlight

Answer

They are flatter

Answer

They have tree cover

Question 9

What is a 'terrain trap' in avalanche safety?

Accepted Answer

A gully or depression increasing burial depth

Answer

A flat ridge

Answer

A terrain that avoids avalanches

Answer

An open meadow