What type of rock that is formed from sediments being compressed and squeezed?
Chemistry · Middle School · Mon Jan 18 2021
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The type of rock that is formed from sediments being compressed and squeezed is called sedimentary rock.
Sedimentary rocks are formed through the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of mineral and organic particles, often derived from the weathering and erosion of pre-existing rocks.
The process involves the following steps:
- Weathering and Erosion: Rocks on the Earth's surface are broken down into sediments through weathering and erosion.
- Transportation: The sediments are transported by natural agents like water, wind, or ice.
- Deposition: The transported sediments settle and accumulate in layers.
- Compaction: Over time, the weight of overlying sediments causes the lower layers to become compacted, squeezing out water and reducing the pore spaces.
- Cementation: Minerals dissolved in water precipitate in the pore spaces, binding the sediments together into a solid rock.
Common examples of sedimentary rocks include limestone, sandstone, shale, and conglomerate.