What Is Alluvium?
Alluvium is the term used to describe sediments deposited by rivers. Rivers constantly carry sedimentary materials along their course, usually the result of erosion. The majority of these materials are picked up in areas of the river where the water runs very quickly and has more force. A river can deposit alluvium at any point along its course, although these deposits are usually concentrated in areas where the water flow is slowed down. Over its course, the sediment is changed and worn down by the flow of the water until it has a loose and almost mud-like consistency. This deposited alluvium is most commonly found where rivers empty into lakes and overflow riverbanks, forming floodplains and deltas. The floodplains and deltas are also known as alluvial plains. The entire process is referred to as alluviation.Because this substance is made up of sand, silt, rocks, clay, and other organic matter, it is known for its fertile soils. Some of the most agricultural productive alluvium deposits in the world are found near the: Huang river, Nile river, Ganges river, and Mississippi river. Alluvium deposits have also been known to fill in small lakes over time, resulting in a geographic feature known as fertile plains. Alluvium deposits that have been left behind by melting glaciers are known as glacial till
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