Geomorphological characteristics and slope processes associated with different basins: Mallorca (Western Mediterranean)

We compare the different geomorphological processes which occurred in Pliocene–Quaternary times on two very similar slopes in Mallorca, one located at the Tramuntana Range and the other in the Llevant Ranges. Both slopes have the same geological structure, the same stratigraphic and lithological levels, and the same altitude and orientation. The different slope processes are due to the relationship between the accommodation space and the sedimentation rate in the adjacent basins: In the Valencia Trough (located N of the Tramuntana Range), the sedimentation rate has not been sufficient to fill the accommodation space, whereas in the Alcudia Basin (adjacent to the Llevant Ranges), the sedimentation rate has been sufficient to fill the accommodation space. This difference has resulted in major landslides on the Tramuntana slope, whereas the Llevant slope is characterized mainly by alluvial fans and debris screes.