Mass Movements

Brain, M.J.; Rosser, N.J.

Abstract

In this chapter, we consider key advances in understanding of mass movements between ~1965 and ~2000. This period saw a burgeoning need for a greater level of understanding of mass movement processes in response to a series of high impact mass movement events, and because of the need to develop infrastructure safely. A series of step-changes were enabled through hillslope geomorphology (broadly defined) being open to overarching and consolidating concepts, methods and models from cognate disciplines, whilst seizing opportunities to gain insight from rapidly advancing methods increasingly focussed at a scale of investigation relevant to landsliding. By ~2000, geomorphologists had made significant contributions to our understanding of mass movement processes and ultimately led many key conceptual advances, notably relating to: bridging across scales of hillslope investigation; linking and developing understanding on process, form and mechanisms of slope stability; and articulating the temporal characteristics of slope stability and mass movement.

Citation

Brain, M., & Rosser, N. (in press). Mass Movements. In T. Burt, A. Goudie, & H. Viles (Eds.), The History of the Study of Landforms or the Development of Geomorphology. The Geological Society. https://doi.org/10.1144/m58-2021-32

• Acceptance Date: Jan 10, 2022
• Online Publication Date: Apr 1, 2022
• Deposit Date: Jan 10, 2022
• Publisher: The Geological Society
• Book Title: The History of the Study of Landforms or the Development of Geomorphology
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1144/m58-2021-32
• Publisher URL: https://www.lyellcollection.org/doi/10.1144/M58-2021-32