What does ground heave refer to?

Ground heave refers to the upward movement of the ground typically associated with soil expansion, often due to factors such as moisture changes in clay soils. When these soils absorb water, they swell and can cause the ground above them to rise. This phenomenon can lead to structural issues if not properly managed, including damage to foundations, pavements, and other infrastructure. Understanding ground heave is crucial in landscaping and site design, where considerations for water drainage and soil composition come into play to mitigate potential risks.

The other options refer to different soil movements that illustrate important geological processes but do not define ground heave itself. For instance, downward movement of the ground pertains more to settling or subsidence, while movement during landslides involves large, rapid shifts of soil due to gravity, and settling relates to the compressive effects of additional weight on soil. Each of these processes highlights different aspects of soil behavior but does not capture the essence of ground heave specifically.