What is the term for the slow, downslope flow of regolith or soil?

The term for the slow, downslope flow of regolith or soil is "creep." Creep refers to the gradual and imperceptible movement of soil and other materials down a slope due to factors such as gravity, moisture, and freeze-thaw cycles. This process is often so slow that it is difficult to observe over short periods; however, over time, it can lead to significant changes in the landscape.

Creep is particularly important in understanding soil stability and managing erosion because even slight movements can accumulate over long time frames, affecting the integrity of structures and ecosystems. It is distinct from other forms of slope movement that occur at different rates, such as solifluction, which tends to happen in cold regions where the ground thaws unevenly, or more rapid movements like avalanches, which are sudden and can carry large amounts of material in a very short time.

Understanding the mechanics of creep is crucial in geology and environmental science, especially in assessing the effects of human activity on slopes and the natural processes that contribute to landform evolution.