An avalanche is an example of erosion due to gravity.
Erosion is the movement of particles and materials that change the shape of the earth's surface over time. While most of the erosion on earth is due to water, gravity also plays a vital part in erosion. When combined with other forces of nature, gravity directs the movement of materials that create many of the geological wonders we see in National Parks. Many types of erosion occur due to gravity.
Basics
Three factors influence erosion -- wind, water and gravity. Particles are shifted from place to place and deposited through the kinetic energy of the wind. Water energy transports particles and materials through currents, and rain produces runoff that causes materials to flow away from their original resting place. Similarly, gravity, which is influenced by the angle of the land, causes materials to be transported down hills, mountainsides and steep slopes.
Angle of the Land
Gravity causes materials with mass to move nearer to or touch the ground. This attraction force is characteristic of the earth. Erosion due to gravity takes place when heavier materials fall lower to the ground. The angle of the land and the condition of the ground are the deciding factors that cause materials to shift and transfer downhill. Friction also plays a part in erosion because of gravity. With enough friction, materials will stay in place despite the angle of the land. However, when other materials, such as water or oil, enter the environment, friction is reduced, contributing to erosion.
Types
Many natural events are examples of erosion caused by gravity. Creep is among the slowest and least noticeable types of gravity-induced erosion. It is the slow push of materials down a slope over a given period of time. It may be evident only in bent trees seen on an incline. Other types of erosion due to gravity happen much more rapidly and are quite dangerous if you get caught in their path. These include avalanches, landslides and rock falls. These events occur when the slope can no longer support the weight of materials, and they are quickly transported down a hill or mountain. Mud flows are another type of erosion, in which mud rapidly erodes down a hillside. Mud flows can be compared to both floods and landslides.
Agents of Erosion
In many cases, gravity itself is responsible for erosion. In other scenarios, gravity acts as an agent of erosion, directing wind, water and ice. Gravity is responsible for currents and tides, as well as the flow of water downhill. Air molecules, of which wind is composed, are held in the atmosphere by gravity. These elements are able to perform erosion with the help of gravity.
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