Pronunciation: [ɡɹˈavə͡lz] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "gravels" is quite straightforward. The word is spelled with a "v" after the "l" because it is a plural form of the word "gravel." In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is pronounced /ˈɡrævəlz/ and uses the American English accent. The stress is placed on the first syllable, and the "s" at the end is pronounced as a "z" because it follows a voiced consonant, which is the "v" in this case.
Gravels, in the context of geology and earth sciences, refer to small fragments or pebbles of rock that range in size between 2 to 75 millimeters. Gravels are formed through the natural processes of weathering and erosion, wherein larger rocks break down into smaller pieces over time. These small fragments, known as gravels, commonly comprise a range of rock types including sandstone, granite, limestone, basalt, and many others.
Gravels are commonly found in terrestrial and aquatic environments such as riverbeds, stream channels, coastlines, and deserts, among others. They are often transported by water, wind, or glaciers, gradually shaping the landscape through their movement and deposition. Gravels play an integral role in various geological processes, acting as carriers of sediment and influencing the erosion and deposition of other materials, as well as contributing to the formation of soils.
Due to their coarse nature, gravels often provide essential drainage properties in construction and landscaping industries. They can be used as a foundation material for road construction, as a key component in concrete production, and as a decorative element in gardens and outdoor spaces. Moreover, because of their ability to store and release heat slowly, gravels are frequently used in geothermal energy systems.
In summation, gravels are small rock fragments that result from the breakdown of larger rocks through weathering and erosion processes. They are an important component of geological systems and have diverse applications in industries ranging from construction to landscaping.
The term "gravels" is derived from the Middle English word "gravele", which can be traced back to the Old French word "gravele" and ultimately to the Latin word "crabula". "Crabula" referred to small stones or pebbles, and it is believed to have originated from the Latin word "crabellus", meaning "rough little pebble". Over time, the word "gravele" underwent changes in spelling and pronunciation, eventually becoming "gravels" in modern English.
