Rockfall: meaning, definitions and examples
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rockfall
[ˈrɒk.fɔːl ]
Definition
natural disaster
A rockfall is a geological phenomenon that occurs when a mass of rock falls from a height due to gravity. It typically happens on steep slopes or cliffs and can be triggered by various factors such as weathering, erosion, and seismic activity. Rockfalls can pose significant hazards, especially in mountainous areas, potentially causing damage to infrastructure and threatening lives. The size of the falling rocks can vary greatly, and the speed at which they fall can lead to catastrophic consequences if they strike people or structures.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The recent rockfall blocked the mountain road.
- Park rangers warned hikers about the risk of rockfall.
- A massive rockfall caused a major delay in train services.
- After the storm, several rockfalls were reported in the area.
Interesting Facts
Geology
- Rockfalls can happen when heavy rains or earthquakes disturb the balance of rocks on a slope.
- Different types of rock layers can make some areas more prone to rockfalls due to their structure.
- In places with freeze-thaw cycles, moisture can seep into cracks, freeze, and break the rocks apart, leading to falls.
Safety
- Areas known for rockfalls often have warning signs to keep people safe while hiking.
- Most rockfalls are unpredictable, which is why it's important to stay aware of your surroundings when in rocky areas.
- Engineers study rockfall points to build safer roads and structures in mountainous regions.
Cultural References
- In literature, rockfalls can symbolize sudden change or the collapse of something that was once stable.
- Movies often use rockfalls as dramatic events to enhance action scenes, adding excitement and danger.
Environmental Impact
- Rockfalls can reshape landscapes by creating new paths for streams and rivers as rocks tumble down.
- They can also impact local ecosystems, as fallen rocks may cover plants and ask some animals to move away.
Prevention and Management
- Engineers may use nets or wall barriers to slow down or capture falling rocks in high-risk areas.
- Regular inspections in vulnerable areas can help predict potential rockfalls and limit the number of incidents.
Translations
Translations of the word "rockfall" in other languages:
🇵🇹 deslizamento de rochas
🇮🇳 चट्टान गिरना
🇩🇪 Felssturz
🇮🇩 longsoran batu
🇺🇦 обвал каміння
🇵🇱 osuwisko skalne
🇯🇵 岩崩れ
🇫🇷 chute de pierres
🇪🇸 deslizamiento de rocas
🇹🇷 kayalık düşmesi
🇰🇷 암석 낙하
🇸🇦 سقوط الصخور
🇨🇿 sesuv skály
🇸🇰 pád skál
🇨🇳 岩石滑落
🇸🇮 plaz kamnin
🇮🇸 bergskrið
🇰🇿 тас құлауы
🇬🇪 ქვების დაცემა
🇦🇿 daş düşməsi
🇲🇽 deslizamiento de rocas