Question

Although gravity is the driving force for mass movement of earth materials, which of the following choices represents other important factors?

A. saturation of the material with water
B. vibrations from earthquakes
C. oversteepening of slopes by undercutting
D. alternating freezing and thawing
E. all of the above
F. none of the above

Answer 1

The important factors contributing to the mass movement of earth materials, besides gravity, are saturation with water, earthquakes, oversharping by undercutting, and alternating freezing and thawing. These significantly affect the stability and movements of earth materials. Option E is correct.

Step-by-step explanation:

While gravity is indeed the key force behind mass movement processes on Earth's materials, several other factors play crucial roles in contributing to these movements. The answer to the question 'Although gravity is the driving force for mass movement of earth materials, which of the following choices represents other important factors?' is E. all of the above.

• Saturation of the material with water can reduce the internal friction of materials, making them more susceptible to movement.
• Vibrations from earthquakes can destabilize slopes and induce landslides.
• Oversteepening of slopes by undercutting, due to processes such as erosion by rivers, glaciers, or ocean waves, can create unstable conditions that lead to slope failures.
• Alternating freezing and thawing can weaken rock and soil structures, contributing to their potential for movement.

It is essential to understand that these factors, alongside gravity, help us to predict and mitigate the risks associated with mass movements such as landslides.