Fluvial Processes
Fluvial processes refer to the actions and changes that occur in rivers and streams as they move water and sediment across the landscape. These processes include erosion, transportation, and deposition. Erosion happens when flowing water wears away rocks and soil, while transportation involves the movement of these materials downstream. Deposition occurs when the water slows down, causing sediments to settle and form new landforms.
These processes play a crucial role in shaping the Earth's surface and creating various landforms such as riverbanks, deltas, and floodplains. Understanding fluvial processes helps scientists and engineers manage water resources, predict flooding, and conserve ecosystems along river systems.