Certified Storm Water Operator Practice Exam

Erosion is the process where soil particles are ______________ or ____________ and put in motion.

1. Dislodged; attached

2. Dislodged; detached

3. Deposited; detached

4. Embanked; removed

The correct answer is: Dislodged; detached

Erosion involves the removal of soil particles from one location and their subsequent transport to another. The terms "dislodged" and "detached" accurately describe this process. Dislodging refers to the initial movement of soil particles from their original position due to various factors such as water flow, wind, or human activity. Detachment indicates that these particles are no longer bound to the soil mass and are free to be moved. This two-step process accurately portrays how erosion occurs: first, particles must be separated from the soil aggregate, and then they are transported by erosive agents. In contrast to the other options, the concepts of "attached" and "deposited" do not convey the same sense of movement and separation inherent to the process of erosion. "Embanked" implies creating a barrier or support, which is unrelated to the process of soil movement. Overall, the correct choice delineates the crucial aspects of erosion, emphasizing both the detachment and initiation of movement of soil particles.