What is the process called by which sediment is added to a landform?

The process by which sediment is added to a landform is known as deposition. Deposition occurs when the energy of the transporting medium, such as water, wind, or ice, decreases, allowing particles to settle out and accumulate in a new location. This can lead to the formation of features such as deltas, sandbars, and beaches, where sediments build up over time.

Understanding deposition is crucial in Earth science because it plays a vital role in shaping landscapes and ecosystems. As sediments are deposited, they can contribute to soil formation and provide habitats for various organisms. Additionally, deposition can occur in different environments, such as riverbanks, coastal areas, and deserts, each influencing the types of sediments and their arrangement.

Erosion, in contrast, is the process of wearing away and removing soil and rock from one location, while transportation refers to the movement of sediment away from its original source to a new location. Translocation is a term often used in biology, referring to the movement of nutrients or organisms rather than sediments in a geological context.