The effectiveness of anchors in stability assessment mainly depends on which factor?

• A. Spacing of anchors
• B. Stiffness of slab
• C. Number of anchors
• D. Size and weight of slab

Answer: (A)

Spacing of anchors controls how the loads from each anchor interact and how effectively they restrain movement. When anchors are placed at appropriate distances, their individual pullout capacities and shear resistances add up across the network, creating a coordinated stabilizing effect that limits movement more reliably. If the anchors are spaced too far apart, each one bears load more independently, leaving larger unsupported zones and reducing the overall stability of the system. Conversely, placing anchors very close together can lead to overlapping influence zones with diminishing returns, wasting capacity without meaningfully increasing stability. So, the way anchors share load through their layout is the dominant factor in how well the stabilization works, making spacing the most influential consideration.