Slopes and slope processes

Abstract

Despite suggestions (see Wolman, 1995, for example) that problem-solving in physical geography relies increasingly on interactions between research and application, there is abundant evidence in hillslope studies of research focused on both real-world problems and aimed at generating new knowledge. A study of mass movement patterns (Flagollet, 1996) illustrates application, by examining hazard associated with spatial and temporal variations in landslide activity. Understanding the principle of dynamic equilibrium is, on the other hand, examined and verified using quantitative DEM data (Chandler and Brunsden, 1995) from sequential air photographs for a landslide complex at Black Ven, Dorset, UK. Some studies crosscut applied and basic research. Hazard assessment is one example, where Crozier (1996) uses past temporal records to address magnitude, fre quency and risk issues through the determination of trigger mechanisms and thresholds, rather than simply ranking terrain unit hazard susceptibility.