MORPHOLOGY AND INTERNAL STRUCTURE OF ROCKSLIDES AND ROCK AVALANCHES: GROUNDS AND CONSTRAINTS FOR THEIR MODELLING

Massive rock slope failures and subsequent rapid motion of huge masses of debris is a complex process. Data required for its understanding and numerical modelling can be derived from detailed study of the morphology and internal structures of rockslide source zones and deposits. Proposed model to explain their peculiarities must not contradict any of the observable phenomena, which should be regarded as constraints with which to check a model's reliability. To develop reliable models for the formation and motion of rockslides and rock avalanches we must take into account the whole assemblage of morphological, structural and depositional features typical of them. Proceeding from case-by-case analysis to a comprehensive synthesis of the whole phenomenon requires systematisation and classification of all of the observable features typical of numerous rockslides and rock avalanches. Classification criteria and principles of data analysis and classification that allow selection of different types and genetic sequences of the phenomena in question are presented and discussed. They are illustrated by case studies from Central Asia, the Caucasus and some other regions.