- Falls occur when materials move under the force of gravity, typically from a steep slope. This can involve free-falling blocks, boulders, and other materials, or avalanches of rapidly moving snow, ice, or rock.

- Slides involve less vertical displacement compared to falls, and occur when materials move along a shear plane or slip surface. These types of movements include rock slides, debris slides, and landslides, and can range in size from localized slips to large-scale failures.

- Flows occur when materials exhibit fluid-like behavior and move in a continuous manner. This includes debris flows, mudflows, and earthflows, which are characterized by the transport of sediments and debris mixed with water. Flows can cover significant distances and can be rapid and destructive.