Rivers play a crucial role in shaping landscapes through processes such as erosion, transportation, and deposition. As rivers flow, they erode the land by carrying sediments and gradually shaping the surrounding terrain. The force of the water can carve out valleys, canyons, and gorges over time. Additionally, rivers transport sediments downstream, creating features like riverbanks and floodplains. Through deposition, rivers can also build up landforms such as deltas and alluvial fans. Overall, rivers are dynamic natural forces that significantly contribute to the formation and transformation of landscapes.