Sediment Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ง
sediment
[หsษdษชmษnt ]
Definitions
geology
Material that settles to the bottom of a liquid; often used to refer to the material that settles in the bottom of a body of water or a liquid mixture.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The sediment at the bottom of the lake was analyzed by the geologists.
- Heavy rains caused the river to carry a large amount of sediment downstream.
chemistry
To settle or deposit as sediment.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Over time, the particles in the solution began to sediment at the bottom of the container.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- Sediment is crucial for the formation of sedimentary rocks, which can hold fossil records and tell us about Earthโs history.
- River and lake sediments can reveal information about pollution levels and ecosystem changes over time.
Geology
- Earth's surface is gradually shaped by sediments being deposited over millions of years, influencing landscapes and habitats.
- Sediment transport processes involve erosion, transportation, and deposition, contributing to the rock cycle.
Environmental Studies
- Excess sediment from construction and farming can harm aquatic habitats by blocking sunlight and covering spawning grounds.
- Monitoring sediment levels can help scientists manage water quality and protect ecosystems in rivers and lakes.
Cultural References
- In some cultures, sediment symbolizes the passage of time and transformation, as the slow accumulation signifies change.
- Literature often uses sediment metaphorically to represent what is left behind and forgotten, much like memories that settle over time.
Origin of 'sediment'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'sediment' comes from the Latin word 'sedimentum,' which means 'to settle down.'
- It was first used in the English language during the late 14th century, indicating its longstanding presence in scientific discussions.
The word 'sediment' originated from the Latin word 'sedimentum', which means 'that which settles'. The term has been used in geology and chemistry to describe the process of material settling at the bottom of a liquid or mixture. Sediment plays a crucial role in understanding geological formations and environmental changes.
See also: sedimentation.