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Gravity deposits are characterized as being unsorted and not layered. This type of deposit occurs when materials are transported downhill due to the force of gravity, commonly seen in landslides or as talus accumulations at the base of steep slopes. The particles in gravity deposits can vary significantly in size and do not exhibit sorting; they are simply accumulated as they fall or slide, resulting in a mixed, chaotic assemblage of materials.

In contrast, water deposits typically exhibit layering and sorting due to the capability of water to transport and deposit sediments based on their size and weight. Wind deposits are also sorted and layered, primarily because finer particles can be carried further than larger ones, leading to distinct sedimentary structures. Organic deposits, while they can have varying characteristics, generally exhibit some sorting and layering due to the way organic materials accumulate, such as in peat bogs or ocean sediments.

Understanding the characteristics of each deposit type helps in identifying geologic processes and the environments in which these deposits form.