Synonyms
Deep-seated gravitational deformation; Gravitational spreading; Slope sagging
Definition
Sackung is a German term denoting slow, deep-seated gravitational deformation of slopes.
Discussion
Sackung-type movements have typical surface expression as uphill-facing (antislope) scarps, tension cracks, grabens, and anomalous ridge-top depressions running roughly parallel to the contours in steep mountain topography. Individual scarps, grabens, and cracks (collectively referred to here as “linears”) have a typical relief of 1–10 m and may be traced over distances of 100 m to more than 3 km. Linears may be arranged sub-parallel to one another, or en echelon, and comprise slope-movement complexes covering areas of 1–10 km2 that are clearly visible on air photographs (Figure 1).
Vertical air photograph of a sackung slope, Affliction Creek, British Columbia, Canada. Note glacial undercutting of the slope. Tension cracks and grabens shown by dashed lines. Antislope scarps...
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Bibliography
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Bovis, M.J. (2013). Sackung. In: Bobrowsky, P.T. (eds) Encyclopedia of Natural Hazards. Encyclopedia of Earth Sciences Series. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4020-4399-4_305
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4020-4399-4_305
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