Final answer:
The true statements about the cycle of weathering, erosion, and deposition include erosion occurring even during mountain formation, the cycle restarting with the formation of new geological features, and these processes contributing to the leveling of Earth's surface over geologic time. Deposition does not break down mountains, and gravity does affect erosion rates.
Step-by-step explanation:
The cycle of weathering, erosion, and deposition plays a critical role in shaping the landscape. Here are the true statements:
B. Erosion occurs even when mountains are forming. Despite ongoing mountain formation, various erosive forces such as water, wind, and ice continue to wear down these structures.
D. When new mountains or plateaus form, the cycle starts over. The formation of new geological features such as mountains and plateaus triggers the continuation of this natural cycle.
E. Weathering, erosion, and deposition have almost leveled Earth’s surface. Over geologic time scales, these processes have contributed to the leveling of Earth's surface, though mountains and other features still exist due to ongoing tectonic activity.
As for the false statements:
A. Deposition does not lead to the breakdown of mountains; it is a process where materials are laid down or added to a landform.
C. Gravity significantly affects the rate of erosion, as it can influence how quickly and in what direction materials are moved.