Which kind of mass wasting processes are commonly associated with creep?

The correct answer is  slow speed with soil.

Key PointsMass Wasting Processes and Creep

• Creep is a type of mass wasting process where soil or rock moves extremely slowly down a slope.
• The movement is so gradual that it is almost imperceptible except over long periods.
• This process primarily affects the upper layers of soil and is often influenced by factors such as freeze-thaw cycles, wetting and drying cycles, and the impact of gravity.
• Slow speed with soil is typically associated with creep because the soil particles move very slowly down the slope.
• In contrast, other mass wasting processes like landslides, rockfalls, or mudflows occur much more rapidly.
• Soil creep can lead to the gradual tilting of trees, fences, and other structures on slopes.

Additional Information

• Factors Influencing Creep
  • Freeze-Thaw Cycles: When water in the soil freezes, it expands, causing the soil particles to move upwards and outwards. When the ice melts, the particles settle slightly downslope.
  • Wetting and Drying Cycles: Similar to freeze-thaw cycles, wetting and drying cycles cause soil particles to expand and contract, leading to gradual downslope movement.
  • Gravity: The constant pull of gravity causes soil particles to move very slowly downhill.
• Indicators of Creep
  • Tilted Trees: Trees on a slope affected by creep often lean downhill.
  • Curved Tree Trunks: Trees that initially grow straight but then curve back upright as the soil beneath them moves.
  • Displaced Fences and Walls: Fences, walls, and other structures on a slope may be gradually displaced over time.
• Impacts of Creep
  • Infrastructure Damage: Over time, creep can cause significant damage to buildings, roads, and other infrastructure.
  • Soil Erosion: Creep contributes to the slow but steady erosion of soil on slopes, which can impact vegetation and land stability.