Reconstruction of Quaternary landscape formation as a tool to understand present geomorphological processes in the eastern Prealps (Austria)

The sequence of slope formation causes a distinct spatial distribution of Quaternary sediments and solid rock at the present land surface. In consequence, the influence of Quaternary landscape formation significantly influences slope stability conditions in the study area. This applies to the specific composition of the basal periglacial cover bed in the study area. It often consists of densely bedded marls and sandstone and is therefore impermeable, which can induce mass movements in the study area. Loess deposits frequently slide on top of the basal periglacial cover bed and form a susceptible pre-requisite for the occurrence of landslides in the study area.