Understanding Landslides: Causes and Impact

Landslides occur when materials like dirt and rocks slide down slopes. They vary in size, from small and unnoticed to massive, affecting entire mountainsides. Common causes include rain, which adds weight to slopes, and erosion. As landslides move, they can gain significant speed, sometimes reaching up to 200 mph, and can even cause materials to roll back up slopes. The video highlights a notable landslide in Japan and explains the dynamics of these natural events.

What materials are involved in a landslide?

• Only dirt and rocks

• Only rocks and boulders

• Only dirt and pebbles

• Dirt, pebbles, rocks, and boulders

Which of the following is a primary cause of landslides?

• Wind

• Rain

• Sunlight

• Snow

What effect does rain have on slopes that can lead to landslides?

• It adds weight to the slope

• It cools down the slope

• It dries out the slope

• It removes vegetation from the slope

How fast can some landslides travel?

• Up to 150 mph

• Up to 50 mph

• Up to 100 mph

• Up to 200 mph

What unusual movement can occur with materials during a fast landslide?

• They can turn into liquid

• They can roll back up the other side of a valley

• They can float in the air

• They can disappear