* Gravity: Weathered rock fragments are constantly pulled downhill by gravity. This force, combined with other factors like slope angle and the presence of water, causes the fragments to move.
* Other factors:
* Water: Rainwater can loosen and carry rock fragments, particularly in the form of surface runoff or even flash floods.
* Wind: Strong winds can transport smaller particles of weathered rock, especially in arid environments.
* Ice: Freezing and thawing cycles can wedge rock fragments loose and move them downhill.
The process of gravity-driven transport of weathered rock fragments is known as mass wasting. This includes various phenomena like:
* Creep: Slow, gradual movement of soil and rock downhill.
* Slides: Rapid movement of a mass of rock or soil down a slope.
* Flows: Movement of a mixture of water, soil, and rock debris.
While other forces play a role, gravity is the primary driver of moving weathered rock fragments down slopes.
