Mass Movements

Mass Movements

Geological processes involving the downward movement of rock, soil, and debris under the influence of gravity.

Landslides

Rapid mass movements of earth materials, often caused by increased slope angle or saturation with water.

Creep

A very slow flow of earth material, only detectable by the dislocation of surface features.

Talus

Loose material that accumulates at the base of a steep slope, indicating that material is actively collecting.

Driving Force

The force acting parallel to the slope due to gravity that promotes movement of materials.

Resisting Forces

Forces that oppose motion, primarily friction and cohesion.

Angle of Repose

The steepest angle at which loose material remains stable, determined by friction and cohesion.

Friction

The force that opposes the relative motion of two surfaces in contact.

Cohesion

The force of attraction between particles that helps to maintain stability within a mass.

Rotational Slide

A type of mass movement where the sliding material rotates as it moves along a curved surface.

Planar Slide

A type of slide where the mass moves down an inclined plane without rotation.

Vegetation's role in slope stability

Roots help bind soil and regolith, reducing erosion and stabilizing slopes.

Velocity of motion

The speed at which earth materials move during mass movements, classified as slow (creep) or fast (avalanche).

Hydration effect

The impact of water on slope stability, where initial small amounts can increase cohesion but excess leads to failure.