Authors:Leonhard Blesius, M. Sayeeduzzaman, and Frank Weirich Abstract:Several geomorphic or hydrogeomorphic parameters, such as drainage network types, stream orders, average slope, or relief, have been traditionally used to characterize geomorphic units, watersheds, or stream properties. In this paper, we present a parameter that as yet has not been fully explored: spatial autocorrelation of slopes, or more specifically slope angle. This parameter could have implications at a number of scales. At the local scale, spatial autocorrelation may indicate specific types of terrain, such as landslide-prone areas. To test this hypothesis, cross-sections of the same slope segment during different periods in time were digitized. Slide movement occurred over several bracketed time periods. Slope changes associated with slope failure were reflected by changes in the autocorrelation value. On a smaller scale, cross-sections of slopes in various mountainous environments should allow discrimination between geomorphic provinces. However, further research needs to be done in order to get a better understanding of this new parameter. In particular, many more areas of varying geomorphic form need to be digitized and analyzed so that a statistically sound evaluation can be performed and representative values for different types of terrain at different scales can be established.Keyword:geomorphology, slope failure, spatial autocorrelation. (c) Copyright 1996-2006 M. Sayeeduzzaman |