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What type of mass movement is most likely to happen on very steep slopes when rocks break loose and tumble down?

User Stig Perez
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Answer:

The type of mass movement that is most likely to happen on very steep slopes when rocks break loose and tumble down is a rockfall. Rockfalls occur when individual rocks or boulders become dislodged from a steep cliff or slope and fall freely through the air before landing on the slope below. This type of mass movement is common in areas with steep rocky terrain, such as mountainous regions or cliffs, and is often triggered by factors like weathering, erosion, or seismic activity.

During a rockfall, the rocks lose their stability and break away due to the force of gravity, resulting in a rapid and sometimes unpredictable descent. Rockfalls can pose significant hazards to people and infrastructure below, as the falling rocks can cause injuries, property damage, and block roads or trails.

It is important for people in areas prone to rockfalls to take necessary precautions, such as installing rockfall barriers or mesh, avoiding walking or camping directly below steep cliffs, and staying informed about potential hazards during periods of heavy rainfall or seismic activity. Understanding the risks associated with rockfalls and taking appropriate measures can help minimize the potential impacts on human lives and property.

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User Akshat Shekhar
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