POKHARA UNIVERSITY

Level: Bachelor Semester – Fall Year : 2009

Programme: B.E. Full Marks : 100
Course: Bio- Engineering Time : 3hrs.
Candidates are required to give their answers in their own words as far
as practicable.
The figures in the margin indicate full marks.
Attempt all the questions.

1. a) What is bioengineering? Explain various engineering functions to be 7

performed by bioengineering structure for protection and
stabilization of slope.
b) Explain hydrological cycle and list various factors that influence run- 8
off generation.
2. a) What is a mineral? List main physical properties of minerals and 7
explain any three of them.
b) What is metamorphic rock? List various metamorphic rocks found in
8
Nepal and write down their diagnostic properties.
3. a) What are the main triggering factors responsible for occurrence of 8
landslide? Describe various causes of occurrence of landslide.
b) What do you understand by plant community? Discuss the main
7
options for overcoming the problem of competition among plants in a
community for light, water and nutrients.
4. a) Find increase in shear strength of the soil due to root reinforcement 8
with following parameters:

Root diameter Root density Tensile strength of

class (No. of roots per root
m²) (MN/m²)
1 to 5mm 40 25
6 to 10mm 25 35
11 to 15mm 10 50
7
b) What are the criteria for selection of plant species? Explain how
vegetation zone affects the plant selection.
5. a) List various types of planted grass lines used in bioengineering. What 8
pattern of grass plantation do you choose for a site which is a newly
1
 cut slope with poorly drained soil and where an increase in
infiltration can lead to liquefaction? Give reasons for choosing it.
Also give the row and line spacing of suggested grass plantation.
OR
What is brush layering? Explain its function, construction steps and
limitation.
b) Define gabion bolster. Describe construction steps of a herringbone
bolster. 7
6. a) State the objectives of a bioengineering nursery and discuss main 8
technical factors that must be followed when establishing a
bioengineering nursery.
b) Prepare a general works annual program of bio-engineering including 7
following activities for slope stabilization:
a. Site assessment
b. Tendering and arranging contracts
c. Implementing civil works
d. Placement of jute netting
e. Grass seed sowing on site
f. Brush layering
g. Tree shrub planting
Write short notes on (Any Two): 5x2
a) Plant propagation methods
b) Optimal technique of bio-engineering
c) Interaction between vegetative and civil engineering systems