Which of the following describes the process of mass wasting?

The process of mass wasting refers specifically to the downslope movement of rock and soil due to gravity. This phenomenon can occur in various forms, such as landslides, mudslides, rockfalls, and creep, and is a significant factor in shaping landscapes. Mass wasting occurs when the strength of the earth materials is overcome by the force of gravity, leading to the movement of material from higher elevations to lower areas.

In contrast, the movement of water in rivers primarily refers to fluvial processes where water is the main agent of erosion and sediment transport. The growth of glaciers pertains to glacial processes in cold climates, involving the accumulation and compaction of snow into ice, which can lead to features such as glacial erosion. The freezing of water on mountain tops is related to freeze-thaw weathering and does not describe the movement of materials due to gravitational forces. Therefore, the correct choice highlights the essential aspect of mass wasting as a gravitational process that endangers slopes and can lead to significant geological changes over time.