What are the two important characteristics of a mass wasting event

Rockfalls and rockslides. Rockfalls occur when pieces of rock break loose from a steep rock face or cliff. These result from the rock face being undercut by rivers or wave action. Frost wedging may also eventually loosen large blocks, causing them to fall. The accumulation of rock debris at the base of a steep slope is called talus. Rockslides usually follow a zone of weakness, such as a bedding plane or foliation plane. Separation of the rock is more likely along these planes because of their reduced shear strength. Water also tends to be channeled along these planes, which increases slippage.

The movement of snow and soil water are two important characteristics of a mass-wasting event.