Mass Wasting

Mass wasting is a process resulting in the down-slope movement of rock, soil and regolith under the gravitational pull. This geomorphic process can take place for such a long time ranging from days to years. Climate plays a very big role towards the process. This determines the amount of rainfall and human activities going on in the area. This weakens soil surfaces thereby making it possible for mass wasting to take place (French, 2007). Rainy areas record high levels of wasting.

This is because water is a major carrier during the geomorphic process and also loosens the surface thus preparing soil particles and rocks for other agents of mass wasting such as wind and gravitational force. This makes areas receiving high levels of rain more susceptible to mass wasting. Water content makes it possible to detach and transport soil materials and rocks (Sills, 2010).

On the other hand, areas receiving very little rainfall and arid conditions might also experience a greater deal of mass wasting. These areas have several contributing factors: presence of heavy winds, lack of vegetation cover, and presence of sloppy terrains. Such dry zones have loose soil particles and rocks thus increasing chances of wasting. Little downpour will carry a great deal of soil particles downstream. Dry climatic conditions therefore influence mass wasting in a similar manner as with rainy climatic conditions (Kusky, 2008). The above knowledge can therefore be used significantly to manage mass wasting in different environments.