What type of movement occurs when horizontal earth pressure on a wall exceeds friction forces?

Horizontal earth pressure is a critical factor in the stability of retaining walls and other structures that are subjected to lateral forces. When the pressure exerted by the soil against a wall exceeds the friction forces that resist sliding, the wall experiences lateral movement.

This lateral movement occurs because the wall is unable to hold its position against the push of the soil, which is generated from the weight of the earth behind it. As a result, the wall begins to shift horizontally, which can lead to structural failure if not properly addressed. Engineers must design retaining walls and similar structures to account for these horizontal pressures and ensure sufficient frictional resistance, often through the use of keying, anchoring, or increased weight of the wall itself to prevent such lateral movement.

The other movements mentioned, such as rotational, vertical, and diagonal, do not specifically relate to the conditions described where horizontal forces exceed resistance due to friction. Therefore, lateral movement is the most relevant and accurate response to the scenario presented.