Rivers shape the landscape over time through erosion, transportation, and deposition of sediment. As rivers flow, they erode the land by carrying sediment and wearing away rocks. This erosion can create valleys, canyons, and other landforms. The sediment that is carried by the river is then transported downstream and can be deposited in new areas, forming floodplains, deltas, and other features. Over time, the continuous process of erosion, transportation, and deposition by rivers can dramatically alter the landscape.