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Erosion

Definition

Erosion is the process of wearing away or removal of soil, rock, or other materials from the Earth's surface by natural forces such as wind, water, or ice. It can lead to the loss of fertile soil and changes in landscapes.

Analogy

Imagine a sandcastle on the beach being slowly washed away by waves. Just like how the waves erode and remove parts of the sandcastle, erosion gradually wears away and removes layers of soil and rocks from the Earth's surface.

Related terms

Weathering: The breaking down of rocks into smaller pieces by physical, chemical, or biological processes.

Sedimentation: The deposition or accumulation of eroded materials such as sediment, silt, or sand in a new location.

Soil Conservation: Practices aimed at preventing erosion and maintaining healthy soils for agriculture and ecosystems.



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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.