Erosion is the process of wearing down and moving surface materials from one place to another through the agents of wind, waves, and running water. Water erosion in streams and rivers carries sediments that act like sandpaper to scrape away rocks, while wave action on shorelines produces fine sand on beaches and forms caves and cliffs. Wind erosion occurs in dry areas with little vegetation, carrying sand that rubs against and wears away rock surfaces and creates distinctive landforms.