Mass Wasting: The Work of Gravity 15

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to mass wasting, slope stability, and factors influencing landslides.

Mass Wasting

Downslope movement of rock and soil driven by gravity.

Angle of Repose

The steepest angle at which loose material remains stationary on a slope.

Stable Slope

A slope that has dry soil and high friction, preventing mass wasting.

Unstable Slope

A slope where moisture reduces friction and causes materials to flow.

Human Induced Mass Wasting

Mass wasting events that are increased in frequency and severity due to human activities.

Surface of Rupture

The plane along which failure occurs in a landslide.

Vegetation Removal

A cause of landslides that decreases slope stability.

Excess Moisture

An increase in water content that can destabilize slopes and trigger landslides.

Retaining Wall

A structure built to support and stabilize a slope.

Causes of Landslides

Factors including earthquakes, rainfall, and increase in slope that contribute to mass wasting.