Sub-Aerial Processes

Coas

Weathering: Mechanical

Breaks down rocks into smaller fragments without altering their chemical makeup

Chemical

Chemical reactions that change the mineral within a rock

• Carbonation

• Hydrolysis

• Oxidation

• Hydration

Biological

Caused by the actions of living organisms

Landslides

The downward movement of rock, earth or debris down a slope due to gravity

Rockfalls

Rapid free-fall, bouncing and rolling of detached rocks, boulders and other materials down a steep slope dur to gravity

Mudflows

Rapid, downhill flow of water-saturated soil and sediment on a slope, often triggered by heavy rain or factors that reduce soil stability

Rotational Slip / Slumping

Material moves down a concave cliff face, making the material rotate backwards into the cliff face as it slips down

Soil Creep

Slow, gradual downslope movement of soil particles on gentle slopes due to gravity and the expansion / contraction of soil due to temperature