When is sediment most likely to be deposited?

• A. amount of organic matter increases
• B. pH of the water becomes more acidic
• C. velocity of the transporting medium decreases
• D. temperature of the environment increases

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that sediment deposition occurs when particles carried by a transporting medium (like water or air) settle out of suspension.
2. Recognize that the velocity of the transporting medium affects its capacity to carry sediment: higher velocity can carry larger and more particles, while lower velocity reduces this capacity.
3. Recall that when the velocity of the transporting medium decreases, it loses the energy needed to keep particles suspended, causing sediment to settle and be deposited.
4. Consider other factors such as organic matter, pH, and temperature, and evaluate their direct impact on sediment deposition compared to velocity changes.
5. Conclude that sediment is most likely to be deposited when the velocity of the transporting medium decreases, as this directly reduces the medium's ability to carry sediment.