Erosion is the movement of soil and rock from one place to another. It happens through natural forces such as water, wind, ice, or gravity. Erosion can change landscapes over time.
Rivers can carry soil downstream, waves can wear away coastlines, and wind can move sand across deserts. Some erosion happens slowly, while storms can cause rapid changes. Landforms such as valleys, cliffs, and riverbanks are shaped by erosion.
Erosion is studied in Earth science. It is observed in many environments around the world.