What is a delta?

A delta is specifically defined as a landform created by the accumulation of sediment that is deposited by a river as it flows into a larger body of water, such as an ocean, sea, or lake. This process occurs when the river slows down as it enters a standing body of water, leading to the sediment it carries settling out and forming a new land area. The distinct triangular or fan-shaped appearance of a delta is often a result of this deposition pattern.

Deltas play a significant ecological role, supporting diverse ecosystems and wildlife, and they can also be crucial for human activities, such as agriculture and fishing. The development of a delta illustrates the interactions between water flow, sediment transport, and geological processes over time. This definition clearly distinguishes deltas from other landforms, highlighting their unique formation process and the environment in which they develop.