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Erosion

Definition

Erosion is the process by which soil, rock, or other materials are gradually worn away or transported by natural forces such as wind or water. It can cause loss of fertile topsoil and negatively impact agricultural productivity.

Analogy

Picture a steady rainstorm hitting a sandy beach. As the rain falls, it washes away sand and creates little channels in the ground. Over time, those channels deepen until they become large trenches - just like erosion slowly wears away soil.

Related terms

Soil Conservation: Soil conservation involves implementing practices to prevent soil erosion and maintain its fertility for sustainable agriculture.

Sedimentation: Sedimentation occurs when eroded materials settle at the bottom of bodies of water such as rivers or lakes, leading to changes in their depth and composition.

Deforestation: Deforestation refers to the clearing or removal of trees from a forested area. It can accelerate erosion by exposing bare soil to wind and rainfall without tree roots holding it together.