Deposition

Deposition is a geological process where sediments, soil, and rocks are added to a landform or landmass. This process occurs when the agents of erosion—such as water, ice, wind, or gravity—lose their energy and can no longer transport the particles they were carrying.

Factors Affecting Deposition

Several factors can influence the deposition process, including the type of sediment being carried, the velocity of the transporting agent, and the shape of the landform or landmass receiving the sediment.

Types of Deposition

There are different types of deposition, including:

• Alluvial Deposition: Occurs when sediments are deposited by flowing water, often forming features like river deltas and alluvial fans.
• Glacial Deposition: Involves the deposition of sediments by melting glaciers, leading to the formation of moraines and outwash plains.
• Eolian Deposition: Refers to the deposition of sediments by wind, resulting in features such as sand dunes and loess deposits.

Study Guide

Here are some key points to remember about deposition:

1. Define deposition and explain the process.
2. List the factors that can influence the deposition process.
3. Describe at least two types of deposition and the landforms they create.
4. Explain how deposition contributes to the formation of sedimentary rocks.

Example Question

How does the velocity of water affect the process of alluvial deposition?

Answer: The higher the velocity of water, the larger and heavier sediments it can transport. When the velocity decreases, the water loses its carrying capacity and deposits the sediments it was carrying, leading to alluvial deposition.

[Deposition] Related Worksheets and Study Guides:

• Agents of Erosion and DepositionScience • Seventh Grade
• How Does the Earth's Surface Change?Science • Third Grade