What is the process by which sediment is laid down in new locations called?

The process of deposition refers to the laying down of sediment in new locations after it has been transported by natural forces such as water, wind, or ice. During deposition, sediments settle out of the medium carrying them and accumulate in layers, which can eventually lead to the formation of sedimentary rocks. This process is crucial in the geological cycle, as it contributes to landform development, the creation of sedimentary basins, and the overall stratigraphy of an area.

The other processes mentioned—weathering, transport, and erosion—are all integral to the cycle of sediment movement but do not directly describe the act of laying down sediment in new places. Weathering involves the breakdown of rocks and minerals at their original location, while transport refers to the movement of sediments from one location to another. Erosion is the process of wearing away and removing surface materials, which can lead to sediment being transported but does not include the laying down of sediment.