Sediments are solid materials made up of loose particles such as fragments of rocks, minerals, organic matter, and remains of plants and animals. These particles are moved around by natural processes like wind, water, ice, or gravity and are deposited in new locations. Sediments range in size from tiny grains of sand to large boulders and can be found in various environments including rivers, lakes, oceans, deserts, and glaciers. When sediments settle at the bottom of water bodies, they form layers that can eventually become sedimentary rocks through lithification. They play a crucial role in ecosystems, geological formations, and the preservation of fossils.

Key Points About Sediments

• Sediments originate from the weathering and erosion of rocks.
• Transported by water, wind, ice, or gravity, sediments are deposited in different locations.
• They include inorganic particles like sand and minerals, as well as organic material.
• Sediments are important for forming sedimentary rocks and provide habitats for aquatic organisms.
• They influence water quality and ecosystem health when present in water bodies.

This defines what sediments are and their importance in natural processes.