Final answer:
The process of transforming sediment into sedimentary rock is called lithification, involving compaction and cementation. Sediments are compressed and glued together by minerals that precipitate out of water, eventually forming a solid rock.
Therefore, option C is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
The process of turning a sediment into a sedimentary rock is called lithification. This transformation involves two key steps; compaction and cementation. Compaction occurs when layers of sediment exert pressure on one another, reducing the space between particles, much like compressing trash in a garbage can to make more room. During cementation, minerals precipitate from water that is being forced out of the spaces between sediment particles, acting like a glue and cementing the grains together, thus creating a solid rock.
There are different types of sedimentary rocks which can be clastic, consisting of compacted and cemented materials; chemical, formed from the precipitation of mineral material; and organic, from the accumulation and lithification of organic matter. Over time, as more material accumulates on top, the pressure increases, leading to further compaction and cementation until the sediments convert into sedimentary rock.