Final answer:
Water plays a crucial role in the erosion of rocks and soil, shaping the Earth's surface through hydraulic action and abrasion. It causes river valleys, gullies, and coastal erosion.
Step-by-step explanation:
Water plays a crucial role in erosion processes. It can wear away rocks and soil, shaping the earth's surface over time. There are two main ways water causes erosion: through hydraulic action, where the force of moving water dislodges and carries away particles, and through abrasion, where particles carried by the water scrape and rub against surfaces, causing them to break down.
For example, rivers erode their banks as water flows against them, forming river valleys. Rainwater can also cause erosion by washing away loose soil on slopes, creating gullies or channels. Coastal erosion occurs when sea waves crash against cliffs, gradually wearing them away.
Overall, water is a powerful force of nature that shapes the Earth's landscape through erosion.
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