Mass Movement Flashcards
Soil Creep
A slow movement of soil particulates downhill from gravity, can affect tree growth (bends)
Mudflows
Involves earth and mud flowing downhill, occurring often after heavy rainfall. Water can get trapped in the rock
Landslide
A block of rock moving rapidly downhill.
Rockfall
The sudden collapse or breaking away individual rock fragments at a cliff face. Often triggered by mechanical weathering or an earthquake. Once away from the cliff, rocks form scree (a temporary store within the coastal system).
Landslip or Slump
Similar to a landslide, but the slide surface is curved rather than flat. Commonly occur in weak and unconsolidated clays and sands. Permeable rock overlies impermeable rock, causing build-up of pore water pressure.
Runoff
Good illustration of relation between water cycle and coastal systems. Transfers both water and sediment.
Solifluction
Similar to soil creep but specifically in periglacial environments.
