Which visual inspection term applies when soil layers on the face of an excavation show a ratio of four horizontal to one vertical?

The term that applies when soil layers on the face of an excavation show a ratio of four horizontal to one vertical is "sloped system." In excavation terms, a sloped system refers to the method of creating an inclined surface to support an excavation's walls, reducing the risk of cave-ins and enhancing the stability of the site. The specified ratio of four horizontal to one vertical indicates a relatively gentle slope, which is generally considered safe and effective for supporting excavated earth.

This method is commonly used in construction to prevent soil from collapsing into the excavation area, providing a safer working environment for contractors and workers. The specifics of the ratio reflect engineering principles that dictate how steep or gently sloped an excavation's sides should be to ensure stability, taking into account various factors such as soil type and environmental conditions.

Other concepts mentioned in the choices pertain to different scenarios in excavation work. For instance, boiling refers to a condition where soil is expelled from a wet excavation, heaving signifies upward movement of soil usually due to pressure or moisture, and surcharge load describes additional weight applied to the ground that can influence the structural integrity of the surrounding area. These terms have distinct meanings and implications in excavation practices but do not apply to the situation described in the question regarding the