Sedimentary Rocks

clast

Small rock and mineral fragments that are part of sedimentary rock.

pore space

The empty space between clasts in sedimentary rocks.

compaction

The process by which clasts are forced together due to the weight of overlying material, reducing pore space.

cementation

The process by which minerals precipitate out of a solution and crystallize in the spaces between clasts, binding them together.

detrital sedimentary rocks

Sedimentary rocks that are primarily composed of clasts.

weathering

The process that breaks down rocks into smaller pieces through water, wind, and other forces.

sorting

The separation of clasts according to size during transport.

chemical sedimentary rocks

Rocks that form from water containing dissolved solids that crystallize when the solution becomes saturated.

biochemical sedimentary rocks

Sedimentary rocks that contain the remains of living organisms.

coal

A type of biochemical sedimentary rock that is composed mostly of carbon from compressed plant material.

fossil

Traces or remains of an ancient organism.