What are quick clays, and how do they cause damage? What will be ...

[Yolanda]

What are quick clays, and how do they cause damage? What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

Compare and contrast mudflows, debris flows, and earthflows. What will be an ideal response?

[mochi09]

Answer to Question 1

Quick clays are clays that spontaneously liquefy and flow. These fine sediments were originally
deposited in a marine environment where their pore spaces were filled with seawater. The ions helped
establish strong bonds between clay particles, and clays were strengthened. When the clays were
uplifted above sea level and groundwater replaced salt water, the effectiveness of the ionic bonds
between the particles was reduced and so was the strength of the clay. A shock can then turn the clay
to liquid, which can flow

Answer to Question 2

Mudflows consist of small particles (at least 50 silt and clay) with a significant amount of water.
They are common in arid and semiarid environments where heavy rainfalls mix with slope material.
Debris flows consist of larger particles with less water; they are more viscous and are slower.
Earthflows are even slower; material slumps from the upper part of a hillside. They are more common
in humid climates on grassy, soil-covered slopes following heavy rains.