What is the term for silt and clay size particles being carried within the water?

The term for silt and clay size particles being carried within the water is "suspension." This process occurs when small particles are supported by the flow of water, allowing them to remain suspended and thus moved along with the water’s current. This is particularly relevant in rivers and streams where fine materials, such as silt and clay, can be transported long distances without settling to the bottom due to the turbulence and velocity of the water.

In contrast, the other processes described deal with larger particles or different modes of transport: traction involves the movement of larger sediments along the riverbed by rolling or sliding, saltation refers to the process where medium-sized particles bounce along the bed of a river, and solution describes the transport of soluble materials in the water, not the small, solid particles found in suspension.