What does undermined streambank refer to?

Undermined streambank refers to an advanced state of lateral erosion, which occurs when the soil or material that supports the streambank is eroded away by water flow, leading to a weakening of the bank structure. This process can significantly affect the stability of the streambank, as the erosion can result in large sections collapsing into the water. Understanding this concept is essential for assessing potential hazards associated with bridges that may be impacted by such erosion, as it can compromise the integrity of the bridge's foundation or approach. Monitoring and addressing undermined streambanks during bridge inspections is crucial for ensuring the safety and longevity of infrastructure adjacent to water bodies.

The other options do not accurately capture the definition of undermined streambanks; they pertain to different aspects of sediment and streambank dynamics.