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Sedimentum is a geological term that refers to the process by which solid particles, such as rock fragments, minerals, and organic matter, are transported and deposited by natural agents like water, wind, or ice. This process is a fundamental part of the Earth's geological cycle, contributing to the formation of various sedimentary rocks and landscapes.

The sedimentum process begins with erosion, where forces like wind, water, or ice break down rocks and transport the resulting particles. These particles can range in size from tiny clay particles to large boulders. The transporting agent, whether it's a river, wind, or glacier, determines the size and type of particles that can be moved and the distance they can travel.

Once the particles reach a new location, they are deposited due to a decrease in the transporting agent's energy or capacity. This can occur when a river slows down as it enters a lake or the sea, or when wind slows down over a flat surface. The deposited particles then accumulate and, over time, can lithify (turn into rock) through processes like compaction and cementation, forming sedimentary rocks.

Sedimentum is crucial in shaping the Earth's surface and is responsible for the formation of many familiar landforms, such as deltas, sand dunes, and alluvial plains. It also plays a significant role in the Earth's carbon cycle, as organic matter in sediments can be buried and eventually transformed into fossil fuels. Understanding sedimentum is essential for various fields, including geology, environmental science, and civil engineering.