A canyon is a deep gorge, typically formed by the erosive action of a river or stream over extended geological periods. These large-scale erosional features result when the descending kinetic energy of flowing water incises into pre-existing rock layers, often following fault lines or areas of differing rock resistance. The depth and width of the resulting chasm are governed by several interacting physical processes, including fluvial abrasion, weathering, and uplift. Differential erosion plays a critical role, as the varying hardness and composition of the strata dictate the rate and pattern of the gorge's retreat, resulting in pronounced vertical and lateral relief.