What is the basic definition of erosion?

Erosion is fundamentally defined as the process by which the land surface is worn away by natural forces such as wind, water, ice, and gravity. This natural phenomenon results in the transportation of soil and rock material from one location to another, leading to changes in the landscape over time.

The actions of these natural forces can lead to significant alterations in topography, affecting ecosystems and human activities. Understanding erosion is crucial for managing land and implementing effective sediment control practices, especially in areas where construction or land disturbance occurs.

In contrast, the other options relate to different concepts. For instance, the creation of land through deposition refers to how sediment is laid down after being transported, which is a different aspect of the geological cycle. Soil enrichment through organic matter focuses on improving soil fertility, while the idea that erosion only occurs through human activities disregards the role of natural processes, which are often the primary drivers of erosion in many ecosystems.