Question

The downhill movement of masses of rock debris and other materials under the direct influence of gravity is ____

Answer 1

The downhill movement of masses of rock debris and other materials under the direct influence of gravity is termed mass movement. Mass movements are aided by gravity and geomorphic agents like running water, glaciers, wind, waves and currents do not participate in the process of mass movements.

Factors affecting Mass Movement

1. Removal of support from natural or artificial means
2. Increase in gradient and height of slopes
3. Overloading through the addition of materials naturally or by artificial fill in
4. Overloading due to heavy rainfall, saturation and lubrication of slope materials