Erosion
The process in which rock is worn away and transported by water, wind or ice
Real World Example
In history, erosion in the Fertile Crescent meant that rich, fertile soil was gradually worn away by rivers like the Tigris and Euphrates. This process was crucial because it provided nutrient-rich silt, which allowed ancient civilizations to grow crops and establish successful agricultural communities. However, excessive erosion could also lead to loss of farmland, impacting food supply and economic stability. Today, erosion still matters as it can lead to loss of valuable soil and land, affecting agriculture and infrastructure. For example, if erosion washes away soil from a farmer's field, it can reduce crop yields, leading to less food and higher prices at the grocery store.