What is a Slump in geological terms?

A slump in geological terms refers specifically to a type of mass wasting that involves a slow-moving slide of debris along a curved surface. This process typically occurs in a semi-circular or rotational motion, where the material moves down a slope while rotating backward. The defining characteristic of a slump is the integrity of the material, which remains relatively coherent as it moves, often causing a distinct scarp or head at the top of the slide and a rotational bulge at the toe of the slump.

In contrast, other types of mass wasting, such as landslides or rockfalls, might involve more rapid and less cohesive motion of debris, but a slump particularly highlights the slow movement of soil or sediment, maintaining a blocky structure as it descends. Understanding this mechanism is important in geology, as it can affect landscape formation, soil stability, and even human infrastructure.