North Carolina General Contractors Practice Exam

What typically results when water flows fast enough to allow suspended soil particles to settle?

1. Evaporation

2. Erosion

3. Sedimentation

4. Condensation

The correct answer is: Sedimentation

When water flows with sufficient velocity that allows suspended soil particles to settle, the process that occurs is sedimentation. Sedimentation refers to the process where solid particles, carried by water or air, settle out of the fluid as it slows down. This typically happens in environments like rivers, lakes, and oceans, where the flow of water decreases, allowing heavier particles to drop to the bottom. This process can significantly impact land formation and the distribution of materials in aquatic environments. As the water slows, it loses the energy needed to keep these particles suspended, leading to the accumulation of sediments. Over time, the settled material can form layers that contribute to the geological features of the landscape. Understanding sedimentation is crucial for general contractors, as it can affect site planning, soil stability, and the management of water runoff in construction projects.