Sedimentation is the physical process by which particulate matter suspended in a fluid medium settles under the influence of gravity or centrifugal forces, leading to spatial segregation based on particle size, density, and shape. In research contexts it underpins techniques such as analytical and preparative centrifugation, sedimentation velocity and equilibrium methods, and sedimentation-based separation in environmental and geological studies. Sedimentation dynamics are described by Stokes’ law in the laminar regime, with deviations at higher Reynolds numbers. It critically influences transport and fate of contaminants, biogeochemical cycling of particulates, formation of stratified deposits, and clarification processes in engineered systems such as water and wastewater treatment.
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