What is the process called that involves a gradual addition to land from natural causes?

The correct choice describes a natural phenomenon known as accretion, which refers to the gradual process through which land is added to property due to the deposition of sediment by natural forces, such as water. This process often occurs along shorelines or riverbanks, where soil, sand, and other materials accumulate over time, increasing the land's area. Accretion is a significant concept in real estate as it can affect property boundaries and ownership rights, especially in waterfront or riverfront properties.

Flooding, while it can lead to changes in land, does not involve the gradual addition of land; rather, it is the result of excessive water accumulation over a period. Avulsion is also different, as it describes the sudden removal of land, usually due to natural disasters like floods or earthquakes. Erosion refers to the process of soil or rock being worn away, leading to a decrease in land area, contrary to what accretion signifies. Therefore, understanding accretion helps clarify property rights and the dynamic nature of land due to natural processes.