Causing erosion is a process that occurs when wind, water, and other natural forces wear away at the surface of the Earth. The term 'erodent' is used to describe any agent or force that causes erosion. Examples of erodents include wind, rain, snow, ice, and even human activities such as farming and construction. Erosion can have both positive and negative effects on the environment, depending on the type of erodent and the area affected.