Final answer:
It is true that clastic sedimentary rocks are more abundant on Earth than chemical sedimentary rocks. They form from weathered and eroded fragments of pre-existing rocks, and their widespread deposition makes them highly prevalent.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to the abundance of clastic sedimentary rocks relative to chemical sedimentary rocks on Earth. Clastic sedimentary rocks, such as sandstones, shales, and mudstones, form from the accumulation of fragments that originate from the weathering and erosion of pre-existing rocks. Transported through agents like wind and water, these particles are deposited and later cemented into solid rock. In contrast, chemical sedimentary rocks, like limestone and salt, form from the precipitation of minerals from concentrated solutions.
It is true that clastic sedimentary rocks are much more abundant on Earth than chemical sedimentary rocks. This is because the processes that lead to the formation of clastic rocks, primarily weathering and erosion, happen widely across the globe and contribute significantly to sediment deposit. Clastic rocks often make up a large portion of Earth's sedimentary rock record, capturing evidence of past environmental conditions and life forms. Elemental resistance to erosion, such as the stability of quartz, and proximity to the source rock, like the presence of feldspar in arkose sandstone, help in deducing the history of these clastic deposits.