Which of the following constitutes a factor in the design of taller retaining walls?

Height and stability against pressure are critical factors in the design of taller retaining walls. The primary function of a retaining wall is to hold back soil or other materials, and as the height of the wall increases, the lateral pressure exerted by the soil behind the wall also increases. Engineers must carefully calculate this pressure to ensure that the wall can withstand it without failing. The design must take into account factors such as the type of soil, the height of the wall, the angle of the slope it is retaining, and any additional loads that may be applied, such as vehicles or structures above the wall.

While other aspects like material choice, construction costs, and surface finishing are important elements in the overall construction and aesthetic outcome of the wall, the fundamental concern for taller retaining walls lies in their ability to remain stable and functional under the pressures they will face. If the wall is not designed to handle these pressures, it could lead to catastrophic failure, making this aspect the most critical in their design.