Sedimentary Rocks Module

These flashcards cover key concepts related to sedimentary rocks, weathering processes, soil formation, and the classification of various types of sedimentary rocks.

What is the precursor process that leads to the formation of sedimentary rocks?

Weathering.

What do sedimentary rocks record about Earth?

They contain the record of chemical and biological evolution.

Name two critical minerals hosted in sedimentary rocks.

Iron and copper.

What is a key factor impacting the carrying capacity of a river?

The velocity of the water.

What are the two main types of weathering?

Chemical weathering and physical weathering.

What role does chemical weathering play in Earth's climate evolution?

It consumes CO2, reducing greenhouse gas levels and contributing to cooling.

What forms the basis of soil?

Weathered rock particles.

What is the top horizon of a soil profile called?

O horizon.

What is the accumulation horizon in a soil profile referred to as?

B horizon.

What type of rock is formed from the accumulation of mineral or rock particles?

Clastic sedimentary rocks.

What is an example of a chemical sedimentary rock?

Limestone.

What is conglomerate composed of?

Large and small unsorted grains.

What type of sedimentary rock forms from organic matter in subtropical swamps?

Coal.

What geological process creates alluvial fans?

Reduction in water velocity at the mouth of rivers.

How can sedimentary rocks indicate changes in sea level?

By examining sequences of rocks in cross section.

What effect does the uplift of the Tibetan Plateau have on weathering?

It increases mechanical and chemical weathering.

Why is soil considered a living entity?

It is comprised of a complex ecosystem of organic matter and minerals.

How does the formation temperature of a mineral relate to its susceptibility to weathering?

Higher formation temperatures correlate with increased susceptibility.

What type of rock is shale?

A fine-grained clastic sedimentary rock made of clay.

What mineral is gypsum rock primarily made of?

Calcium sulfate.

What do Deltas represent in terms of sediment transport?

A reduction in water velocity causing deposition of sediments.