Crustal growth refers to the process by which the Earth's crust, the outermost layer of the planet, increases in size over geological time. This growth can occur through a variety of processes, including volcanic activity, tectonic movements, and sedimentation. Understanding crustal growth is important for understanding the formation and evolution of the Earth's surface, as well as for predicting geological hazards such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Researchers in this field use a combination of field observations, geophysical surveys, and laboratory analyses to study the processes and mechanisms involved in crustal growth.