What are sedimentary rocks?
The word 'Sedimentary' is derived from Latin word "Sedimentum" meaning "Settle Down". Particles that form a sedimentary rock by accumulating are called sediments. Before being deposited, sediment was formed by weathering and erosion in a source area, and then transported to the place of deposition by water, wind, ice, mass movement or glaciers which are called agents of denudation.
Features of Sedimentary rocks are: -
1. They are layered, called stratified rocks.
2. They do not contains crystals.
3. They contain fossils embedded in them.
4. They are rich in coal and petroleum deposits.
5. Examples of Sedimentary rocks are: - Sandstone, Clay, Limestone, etc.
6. 70% of the total earth's surface is dominated with these rocks.
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What are sedimentary rocks?
Rocks roll down crack and hit each other and are broken down into small fragments these smaller particles are called sediments. this loose sediments are compressed and hardened to form layers of rocks these types of rocks are called sedimentary rocks
What are sedimentary rocks?
Sedimentary Rocks
Sedimentary rocks are one of the three main types of rocks found on Earth's surface, along with igneous and metamorphic rocks. These rocks are formed through the accumulation and solidification of sediments, which are particles of rocks, minerals, and organic materials that are carried and deposited by wind, water, or ice.
Formation
- Sedimentary rocks are formed in layers, with each layer representing a different period of time and environmental conditions.
- The process begins with weathering and erosion of existing rocks, which breaks them down into smaller particles.
- These particles are then transported by natural agents like rivers, glaciers, or wind to new locations where they settle and accumulate.
- Over time, these sediments are compacted and cemented together to form solid rock.
Types
- There are three main types of sedimentary rocks: clastic, chemical, and organic.
- Clastic rocks are made up of fragments of pre-existing rocks, such as sandstone and shale.
- Chemical rocks form from the precipitation of minerals from water, like limestone and rock salt.
- Organic rocks are composed of the remains of plants and animals, such as coal and limestone.
Features
- Sedimentary rocks often contain fossils, which provide valuable information about past environments and life forms.
- They can also display distinctive layering, known as bedding, which reflects the changing conditions during their formation.
- Sedimentary rocks are typically softer and more porous than igneous or metamorphic rocks, making them easier to erode and shape by natural forces.
In conclusion, sedimentary rocks are important geological formations that provide insights into Earth's history and past environments. Their diverse types and features make them valuable resources for studying the planet's evolution.
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