Theory 08/Thresholds & Tipping/Snow avalanches
Avalanches Release on a Ratio
The claim
Slab avalanche release occurs when the ratio of load to weak-layer strength exceeds a threshold, so a thin slab on a weak layer can release before a thick slab on a strong one.
01Mechanism
Failure requires the stress on the weak layer to exceed its strength; both terms vary independently, and the ratio, not the load, decides.
02Prediction
Release should track the ratio rather than new snow depth.
03Refutation
Release tracking snow depth at controlled weakness would remove the ratio.