A sediment budget is the accounting of sediment volumes within a particular area over a specific time frame, essentially tracking the sources, transport pathways, and sinks of sediment. This concept is crucial for understanding landscape evolution and coastal dynamics as it helps assess how sediment is redistributed due to natural processes and human activities. By analyzing sediment budgets, scientists can predict changes in landforms, sediment supply, and the impact of factors like erosion and deposition on ecosystems.
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