Sedimentary basins are large depressions in the Earth's crust where sediments accumulate over time. These basins can form in various environments, such as river valleys, lake beds, or ocean floors. The weight of the accumulating sediments can lead to further subsidence, allowing more layers to build up. Over millions of years, the sediments in these basins can become compacted and cemented, forming sedimentary rocks. This process is essential for the formation of natural resources like coal, oil, and natural gas, which are often found in these geological formations. Understanding sedimentary basins is crucial for resource exploration and environmental studies.