Final answer:
Erosion is the process through which sediments are loosened and carried away by agents like water, wind, or ice, shaping various landforms on Earth and contributing to the formation of clastic sedimentary rocks.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Process of Erosion
The process by which running water, wind, or ice loosen and carry away sediments is known as erosion. This natural process plays a crucial role in shaping the Earth's surface. For instance, rivers are a prime example of erosion in action. In their upper streams, rocks are eroded, and thus, sediments are transported downstream and deposited in floodplains.
Similarly, clastic sedimentary rocks are formed through this process. Weathering causes rocks to break apart, and erosion transports these fragments to new locations where they eventually settle, layer upon layer, forming sedimentary rock structures like conglomerate, sandstone, and shale.
Specifically, quartz is often found in sedimentary rocks because of its stability and resistance to erosion. Conversely, feldspar weathers to clay demonstrating a shorter distance of transport before deposition. Ultimately, weathering and erosion contribute to the cycle that results in sedimentary rock formation.