Sedimentology (Discipline)

Sedimentology is the study of sediment—small particles like sand, mud, and gravel—that accumulate in layers on the Earth's surface or in water bodies. This discipline explores how sediments are formed, transported, and deposited over time, which helps scientists understand past environments and geological history. By examining sediment characteristics, such as size and composition, sedimentologists can reconstruct ancient landscapes, assess natural resources like oil and groundwater, and evaluate risks from erosion or flooding. Essentially, sedimentology helps us grasp how the Earth's surface changes and how these changes impact ecosystems and human activities.